Australia’s alpine regions are home to some of our most unique and vulnerable wildlife, but few are as elusive—or as adorable—as the mountain pygmy possum.
In a heartening turn of events, researchers have made a remarkable discovery in the shadow of Mount Kosciuszko, our nation’s tallest peak, that’s giving hope to conservationists and nature lovers alike.
A tiny survivor in a harsh landscape
The mountain pygmy possum (Burramys parvus) is a true Australian battler. Weighing in at just 30 to 40 grams—smaller than two human fingers—these tiny marsupials have survived for millennia in the rocky boulder fields of the Snowy Mountains.
But in recent years, their future has looked bleak. Their numbers plummeted from around 1,000 to just 700, battered by the devastating 2019-2020 Black Summer bushfires and the mysterious disappearance of their main food source, the bogong moth.
So, when a team led by veteran scientist Dr Linda Broome set out on a recent expedition, expectations were cautious.
What they found, however, was nothing short of extraordinary: 107 mountain pygmy possums at a single site—an unprecedented number in recent memory.
‘It is heartening to see mountain pygmy-possum numbers thriving again,’ Dr Broome said, her relief and excitement clear after decades spent studying and fighting for these remarkable creatures.
A fragile existence in the clouds
The possums’ home is as dramatic as it is precarious. High in the clouds, among the rugged boulder fields of Kosciuszko National Park, these marsupials eke out a living in an environment that’s as beautiful as it is unforgiving.
Their tiny size and nocturnal habits make them easy to overlook, but their survival is a testament to the resilience of Australia’s wildlife.
Photos from the latest survey reveal just how delicate their alpine habitat is—a reminder that, while this discovery is cause for celebration, the fight to save the species is far from over.
Dr Broome, who is nearing the end of a career dedicated to threatened species, is quick to caution that ongoing support and vigilance are essential.
‘We will continue our work to support these possums and strengthen their population, ensuring these iconic marsupials have the best chance of long-term survival,’ she said.
Community effort and creative solutions
The recent boost in possum numbers isn’t just down to luck. It’s the result of tireless work by scientists, national parks staff, volunteers, and even local schoolchildren.
One particularly creative solution has been the development of ‘bogong bickies’—hand-baked food treats designed to replace the missing bogong moths.
This project, a collaboration between the Saving Our Species program, the National Parks and Wildlife Service, and students from Berridale, Cooma, Adaminaby, and Jindabyne schools, has played a crucial role in keeping the possums fed and healthy.
Environment Minister Penny Sharpe praised the collaborative effort: ‘It’s wonderful to see the population of mountain pygmy possums showing signs of recovery thanks to important conservation work.’
A population on the mend—but new threats loom
Thanks to these combined efforts, the total population at the possum’s two main habitats is now estimated at 940—a significant improvement, but still a fragile number. As winter approaches, however, new challenges are emerging.
At Blue Cow, another key site, possum numbers remain low, and human activity is putting them at risk. Authorities have issued fresh warnings for snowboarders and skiers to stay out of closed habitats, highlighting the ongoing tension between recreation and conservation in our alpine regions.
Why the mountain pygmy possum matters
You might be wondering: why all this fuss over a tiny, nocturnal marsupial? The mountain pygmy possum is more than just a cute face.
It’s a living relic from the last Ice Age, a species found nowhere else on Earth, and a vital part of the alpine ecosystem.
Its survival is a barometer for the health of Australia’s high country, and its story is a powerful reminder of both the fragility and resilience of our natural world.
How you can help
If you’re inspired by the possum’s story, there are ways you can make a difference:
Respect closed habitats when visiting the Snowy Mountains—stick to marked trails and obey signage.
Support conservation groups working to protect threatened species in your area.
Get involved in citizen science projects or local environmental initiatives.
Spread the word about Australia’s unique wildlife and the challenges they face.
Have you ever spotted a mountain pygmy possum or visited the alpine regions of Kosciuszko National Park? What are your thoughts on balancing recreation and conservation in our wild places? We’d love to hear your stories and opinions—share them in the comments below!
Australia’s environment is full of surprises, and sometimes, the smallest creatures can inspire the biggest hope. Let’s keep working together to ensure that future generations can marvel at the wonders living in the shadow of our tallest mountain.
Also read: Save the penguins: The growing call to protect Perth’s endangered little penguins
