Possum Fur

The brushtail possum is a small marsupial with a coat of unique, valuable fur. The secret of this fur’s warmth is its hollow structure, an attribute found in only one other species – the polar bear. With air trapped inside the fibre the fur provides sumptuous warmth, natural insulation and incredible lightness. In New Zealand this possum is also a major threat to our native wildlife – and its use in high-end fashion helps bolster our country’s conservation efforts. The brush-tailed possum is a major pest in New Zealand. It was introduced from Australia in 1837 to establish a fur industry. In Australia its population is kept down from dingoes, bush fires and less palatable vegetation. In New Zealand conditions are quite favourable for possums and the population now tops 70 million. It is estimated that they consume 70 million tonnes of native and introduced vegetation per year. The following is a series of points of the damage possums do: They damage our native forest. They eat the new growth leaving the old as well as eating berries and flowers. Often trees will end up dying. They compete with the native birds by eating insects and berries as well as eating their eggs and chicks, of which many are endangered species. They can damage crops as well as people's gardens. They are a nuisance in suburban gardens. They spread bovine tuberculosis in cattle and deer which is damaging to the dairy industry. Possum products must not be left out in the sun. Sunlight even through a window will cause damage. The fur will fade and the hides will disintegrate. Possums are nocturnal marsupials and therefore their hides are not toughened nor conditioned for the sun. Bear Cottage makes various possum fur products including Teddy Bears, Bedspreads and Throws, Hats, Scarves, Slippers, Insoles, Cushions, Hot Water Bottle Covers and Bike Seat Cover. Our possum fur products are made from good quality skins.