The Ringtail Possum's Diet
The ringtail possum, which is native to Tasmania, New Guinea and Australia, lives in a variety of habitats, including woodlands and rainforests. Because of this, the possum's diet consists of a number of different foods for proper growth and development; the animals can also be kept as pets, since owners can find a number of items in the grocery store to feed a ringtail possum with.
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Diet in the Wild
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When a ringtail possum is in the wild, it is common for the animal to eat leaves from the eucalyptus tree. Acacia is also a regular part of the possum's diet, as well as the leaves that are in the tops of the trees where the animal spends most of its time. Blossoms and fruits that grow in trees are also consumed by the ringtail possum.
Domestic Diet
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When keeping the ringtail possum as a pet, it is best to feed it a variety of greens (i.e., kale, collard greens), as well as fresh fruits and flower petals. Ringtail possums also eat grains like oats, as well as a variety of nuts. If possible, it is also best to include native foods in the pet possum's diet, such as eucalyptus and acacia, along with tea trees and she-oak.
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Types of Ringtail Possums
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The ringtail possum's diet will differ slightly, depending on its type. For instance, the common ringtail possum feeds primarily on eucalyptus leaves and will likely eat only these leaves when in the wild. The green ringtail possum favors fig leaves but will also eat pepperwood. It is important to know the diet preferences of each type of possum before purchasing the animal as a pet so that the possum will thrive properly.
Optimal Nutrition
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It is very common for the ringtail possum to consume its own fecal matter after eating leaves or fruits. This allows the animal to digest its food more than once, so that the maximum amount of vitamins and nutrients can be extracted from the food. When keeping the possum as a pet, it is important to purchase a cage that is large enough for the possum to move around freely so that this process can take place efficiently.
Water
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In addition to a diet that is rich in fruits and leafy vegetables, which contain a considerably large amount of water, the ringtail possum also needs lots of drinking water. Possums that live in the wild have access to drinking water at all times, so it's important to make sure that this is replicated in a domestic setting. Filling a tray with water several times a day will provide the possum with enough to drink; water should also be positioned at the top of the cage, as possums like to climb, eat and drink from the tops of trees.
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References
- Photo Credit baby opossum-rb image by Tijara Images from Fotolia.com
Comments
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Your picture is not of a Ringtail Possum. They are a protected Australian animal. What are doing giving advice (incorrect, I might add) for them to be kept as pets! I am reporting this site to the authorities.
