SOUTH WEST wildlife community groups are urging residents to report anything unusual after increased reports of dead Western Ringtail Possums.
Over the past month the Dunsborough Coast and Landcare Committee received reports from residents of dead possums in the water or mutilated on the beach.
Committee member Ron Glencross said the five possums found this way was unusually high.
After taking the five bodies to the vet, the cause of the deaths was still unknown, he said.
Mr Glencross said it was most likely from a predator attack.
The species are listed as endangered with estimates only 7,000 to 8,000 left in the state.
GeoCatch project officer Breanne Brown said the area between Busselton and Dunsborough had the largest population density of the animal.
To trap or kill possums is illegal. Offenders can receive a $10,000 fine.
Moving or relocating possums is also illegal and Ms Brown said would not solve the problem as more possums would move into vacated territories.
Mr Glencross said resident’s lifestyle of having balconies and patios were inviting to the possum and people should be wary of this.
“Everyone needs to learn to live with the possums,” he said.
Along with GeoCatch there are a number of community groups which aim to educate and raise awareness of how to live with the Western Ringtail Possum and their plight for survival.
“I’d urge anyone who wants to learn more about our special possum to visit our website or keep an eye out for the Spring series of nightwalks – they are great fun and a real, outdoor learning experience,” Ms Brown said.
The GeoCatch website shows how residents and schools can help with the awareness of the animal.
This includes keeping cats and dogs indoors at night, preserving Peppermint Trees and other native vegetation, putting a possum box in your garden, disposing of rubbish responsibly and driving with caution at night when the possums are most action.
Community groups are also working with caravan parks and resorts in the area to educate as well making the possums are feature of the accommodation.
If anyone does see anything unusual contact the Department of Parks and Wildlife wildcare helpline on 9474 9055.
