File:Western pygmy possum climbing tree - DPLA - 7482a9d14f19dd7d46da18ef28102000.jpg

35 mm slide; color. Scientific Classification: Kingdom: Animalia; Phylum: Chordata; Class: Mammalia; Order: Diprotodonta; Family: Burramyidae; Genus: cercartetus; Genus species: cercartetus concinnus. Animal characteristics: Head-Body Length: 71-106 mm; Weight: 8-20 g; Identification: The western pygmy possum is fawn to reddish brown in color with white underparts. The tail is prehensile and naked, except for the very base; Habitat: Dry sclerophyll forests, mallee heath; Diet: Omnivore: insects, nectar; Reproduction: These tiny possums breed throughout the year. They have up to six young at a time, which are carried in the mother's pouch for 25 days. After that, the babies are kept in a nest until they become independent at three months; Behavior: Pygmy possums are nocturnal and arboreal. They often build their nests in abandoned birds' nests. Due to their small size, they are often found in a state of torpor; Status: No special status; Interesting Facts: The tail is used for fat storage. Current populations are threatened by feral and domestic cats, as well as urban development.