Abstract
Investigation into the incidence of selected infectious diseases of arboreal possums is currently underway as part of research focusing on the conservation management of the threatened Western Rlngtail Possum (Pseudocheirus occidentalis), Selected populations of P. occidentalis and the Common Brush tail Possum (Trichosurus vulpecula) on the coastal plain between Mandurah and Dunsborough are being sampled in the course of the research. Samples are tested using serology and PCR assay for evidence of infection by Cryptococcus neoformans, Chlamydophila spp., Leptospira interrogans serovars, and Toxoplasma gondii. These pathogens are discussed with regards to the potential infection of possums in the south west, and results to date are presented.