Operation Possum is people-powered
by Vincent Ciccarello
The public response to the launch of a statewide study into possums has already surpassed expectations.
Following the extraordinary success of last year’s Operation Bluetongue, UniSA and radio station ABC 891 Adelaide have again joined forces, this time to find out about possums and how people interact with them.
Operation Possum is being conducted by researchers from UniSA - but they’re relying on the help of adults and school children across the State.
All South Australians are invited to play an active role in the study by completing a public questionnaire which is available online until November 20.
UniSA Professor of Urban Ecology, Chris Daniels says there has already been an overwhelming response from the public.
"Possums are fascinating creatures and an important part of our urban ecology, but we know surprisingly little about them," Prof Daniels said.
"The’ve lived in Australia for millions of years and there are significant fossil possum sites at Lake Eyre, the Naracoorte Caves and Curramulka Cave on the Yorke Peninsula."
Operation Possum focuses on five possum species – the common brushtail and ringtail possums; and the Western, Little and Eastern Pygmy-possums.
"The aim of the study is to find out where possums live, how people interact with them, and what people think of living close to wildlife. These interactions with wildlife are an important way in which people can connect with the natural environment around them," Prof Daniels said.
Operation Possum is an example of Citizen Science, a method of scientific data collection that is becoming popular internationally because it allows citizens to contribute to scientific research while also increasing public awareness of science, scientific methods, and scientific research.
In addition to the online survey, Operation Possum participants are able to upload stories and photos, and to ask questions via an online blog. Schools are also invited to write reports on their findings.
To take part in Operation Possum, visit www.abc.net.au/adelaide/features/possum