Palm trees fitted with possum guards
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Palm trees fitted with possum guards
Two palm trees fitted with possum guards, growing in Royal Park, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. The common brushtail possum, Trichosurus vulpecula, is a reviled pest in many parts of urban Victoria, due to its habit of feeding on tree leaves, fruit, flowering plants in gardens, and its ability to enter roof-spaces, causing damage, pollution and noise. In the area around Royal Park it is estimated that the population of possums is much higher than is found in rural regions of Victoria, at 15-40 per hectare. In rural Victoria, the population is 1-4 per hectare. Local councils seek to protect the finest trees in their parks by the use of smooth sheets of plastic or metal fixed around the trunks of valued trees. Possums are unable to climb past these barriers, and, provided that the tree is sufficiently distant from any unguarded neighbours, it will be protected from damage
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 9242041
© DR JEREMY BURGESS/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases two majestic palm trees standing tall in Royal Park, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. However, what makes this image particularly intriguing is the presence of possum guards fitted around the trunks of these trees. The common brushtail possum, known as Trichosurus vulpecula, has gained a notorious reputation as a pest in urban areas of Victoria. These mischievous creatures have a penchant for feasting on tree leaves, fruits, and flowering plants found in gardens. Moreover, their ability to infiltrate roof spaces often leads to damage and disturbance. To protect the cherished trees within Royal Park from these pesky invaders, local councils have employed an ingenious solution - smooth sheets of plastic or metal encircling the trunks. Possums find themselves unable to scale past these barriers effectively safeguarding the valuable flora from harm. Interestingly enough, it is estimated that the population density of possums around Royal Park far exceeds that found in rural regions of Victoria. With numbers ranging from 15-40 per hectare compared to just 1-4 per hectare elsewhere. Through this remarkable photograph captured by Science Photo Library's lensmen/women (not mentioning commercial use), we are reminded of both nature's resilience and humanity's ingenuity when faced with challenges posed by urban pests like possums.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
