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Scientific name: Burramys parvus
About
The mountain pygmy-possum is the only Australian mammal adapted to live exclusively in the cold alpine and subalpine zone. They are covered in soft grey fur and have a long tail. They have agile front feet for gathering food and enlarged front teeth for cracking seeds.
During the warmer months, they almost double their body weight by feeding on berries, seeds, insects and fat‑rich Bogong moths to survive winter. Some of the food they collect is stored for their prolonged winter hibernation under the snow.
Where are they found
Mountain pygmy-possums live primarily among rocky boulder fields and travel between boulder fields under cover using dense vegetation.
Boulder fields retain heat in winter and stay cool in summer. The gaps between rocks create sheltered spaces that provide suitable habitat for this specialised species.
Stable temperatures under the snow, between about –2 and +2 degrees Celsius, are critical for survival.
The total adult population is estimated at about 2,000 animals, with several projects underway to support the species’ survival.
Threats
Like many alpine species, climate change presents a risk for the mountain pygmy-possum. Increased variability in snowfall and snow depth reduces the snowpack’s insulating effect, leaving the animals more vulnerable to cold temperatures.
If mountain pygmy‑possums wake from hibernation early due to extreme cold, heat, noise or vibration, they risk not having enough body weight or stored food to survive until spring.
Other risks to mountain pygmy-possums include:
- decline in Bogong moths (a staple food source)
- habitat loss
- fragmentation and degradation
- reduced genetic diversity due to isolated populations
- natural events such as bushfires
- predation by pest animal species.
What we are doing
Significant efforts are being undertaken be Alpine Resorts Victoria (and other agencies), to manages and reduce risks and increase populations.
Habitat re‑creation, reconnection and restoration projects are underway across all alpine resorts managed by Alpine Resorts Victoria.
This work is guided by ARV’s Mountain pygmy-possum recovery plan, an on-going 5-year plan, established in 2005.
Alpine Resorts Victoria is an active member of the Victorian Government’s Mountain Pygmy-possum Recovery Team. We collaborate and share knowledge with other partners working to protect this species:
- Traditional Owners
- independent experts
- Parks Victoria
- Catchment Management Authorities
- Zoos Victoria.
Page last updated: 22/04/26