The Western Ringtail Possum (Psuedocheirus occidentalis) (WRP) is endemic to the southwest of Western Australia. Over recent history numbers have declined, and continue to do so due to habitat loss, degradation, fragmentation, predation by introduced predators (notably foxes and cats), increased resource competition (e.g. hollow competition), and have also been identified as a species likely to be impacted by climate change. Another increasing threat is unregulated relocation of rehabilitated animals (e.g. through introduction of disease). Due to historic decline, and continued threats, they are listed as Critically endangered under the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Federal), and have recently been upgraded to Endangered under the Wildlife Conservation Act 1950 (State).

The following past projects aimed to increase our knowledge of our local population and increase awareness;

Filling in the gaps: Porongurups

Core Albany Possums

Greater Understanding: Emu point and Bayonet Head

---

You can also help this species as a citizen scientist by record your own possum sightings on INaturalist and sharing it with scientist all around the world and making your backyard possum safe. 
Here are some useful resources:​

Spotlighting guide

Backyard guide