Brushtails were hunted extensively for their pelts in days gone by. Brushtails found in WA are usually silver-grey with a pale belly. Some individuals, however, can be quite dark and occasionally have reddish shoulders and necks. The tail is bushy although the underside is partly bare. The tip can be either black or white.
Brushtail possums have large eyes and erect, prominent ears.
Their faces are more pointed than ringtails. They are also bigger, with females attaining around 1.3 kilograms and males 1.6 kilograms. Males often have a reddish stain on their chest, indicating an active scent gland. Brushtails live in a wide range of habitats. Throughout their present range they are common and frequently found in towns and cities.