Possum: Brushtail Spotted at Hobart Airport

At 11:45 a.m. on March 19, 2026, a brushtail possum was found nestled among plush toys in the Lagardère AWPL gift shop at Hobart Airport, Tasmania. The unexpected visitor was spotted by a passenger among toy kangaroos, bilbies, dingoes, and Tasmanian devils, showcasing the unique wildlife of the region.

The calm possum briefly ventured into the departure lounge before airport staff escorted it outside. Liam Bloomfield, the retail manager of the gift shop, expressed delight at the incident, stating, “We’ll have a little shrine to the possum.” This lighthearted response reflects the joy the encounter brought to both staff and travelers.

Captured on camera, the possum was seen huddled among the soft toys, leading to a flurry of social media reactions. One user remarked, “This would make my whole year. So cute.” The event has sparked interest in the local wildlife and the plush toy collection, which Bloomfield humorously noted now has the ultimate seal of approval.

Brushtail possums are one of five species found in Tasmania and are known for their nocturnal habits. However, it remains unclear how this particular possum entered the secure departure terminal, raising questions about airport security protocols.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding how long the possum was in the shop before being spotted. The incident highlights the intersection of wildlife and urban environments, particularly in areas like Tasmania where unique species thrive.

As observers continue to share their thoughts online, the airport staff’s plans for a shrine indicate a community spirit embracing this unusual occurrence. The presence of the brushtail possum at Hobart Airport serves as a reminder of the region’s rich biodiversity and the unexpected moments that can arise in everyday life.