Get your loved ones a Christmas present with a difference this year – one that could help save the western ringtail possum from the brink of extinction.
SWCC’s crowdfunding campaign to save the iconic South West species is only open for one more week and a donation could be the perfect way to treat your loved ones this festive season.
“We want to give these possums a very merry Christmas through the generosity of the community. We are hoping people will get on board and help us raise money for this worthy cause,” said SWCC Community Engagement Program Manager Nerilee Boshammer.
Since the campaign’s launch in November, $4,740 has been raised and will to go to a range of local groups currently undertaking possum conservation activities, including:
- FAWNA
- Busselton Dunsborough Environment Centre
- Dunsborough Coast and Land Care
- Maroo Wildlife Refuge
- Possums R Us
- Nature Conservation Margaret River
- GeoCatch
- City of Busselton
- Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions
There’s estimated to be 8000 western ringtail possums left in the wild. While that may seem a lot, compared to internationally threatened species such as at the white rhino, which has a population of 20,000, and it paints quite a grim picture for our south west local marsupial.
The western ringtail possum is under threat from urbanisation, including a habitat reduction (clearing of peppermint trees); predation by feral and introduced animals; and vehicle strike.
It is facing extinction if we don’t act now!
If you would like to help us save these little critters before it’s too late, please donate at www.chuffed.org/project/wrp.
Have questions? Please feel free to contact Vanessa Harrop at 9724 2421.
