Northern Common Cuscus
Phalanger orientalis
Conservation Status
Least ConcernMammalia · Diprotodontia · Phalangeridae
About
The northern common cuscus, also known as the gray cuscus, is a species of marsupial in the family Phalangeridae native to northern New Guinea and adjacent smaller islands, but is now also found in the Bismarck Archipelago, southeast and central Moluccas, the Solomons, and Timor, where it is believed to have been introduced in prehistoric times from New Guinea. It was formerly considered conspecific with the allopatric P. intercastellanus and P. mimicus.
Fun Fact
Northern common cuscuses have prehensile tails so strong they can support the animal's full weight, and they move so slowly through the canopy that moss sometimes grows on their fur.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Tropical forests
Diet
Omnivore
Lifespan
8-11 years
Threats
- Illegal Logging
- Habitat Fragmentation