Throughout the week, Sanctuary volunteers gather an array of native flowers and foliage for the possums in care. These pickings not only contribute to possum nutrition, they also allows them to learn what is good to eat in the wild upon release, encouraging natural behaviours and enhancing both their physical and mental well-being.
The Valley’s gardens are densely planted with possum friendly food plants, including eucalypts, acacia, hakea and kunzea. Grevillea and bottlebrush flowers and fruits are also readily enjoyed, and we endeavor to grow species that have long flowering periods. Variation is key, and a bunch of mixed flowers and foliage is always an exciting addition to the possum aviaries.
In the Perth Hills area, both marri and jarrah trees are the dominant canopy species, so this foliage is especially important for animals close to release, so they are acquainted with browsing these in the treetops. For young, newly weaned possums, rose flowers and leaf tips are highly palatable and easily chewed, and while not native, are very useful when transitioning youngsters to nibble leaf material.
Eating natural foods is an absolute priority when preparing possums for release. Life in the wild is tough for hand reared animals, so ensuring they can forage successfully in forest is a crucial for their survival. Growing fauna friendly native plant species in the garden is a great way to support our wild friends!
No comments:
Post a Comment