The tiny orphaned possum that was rescued after his mother was killed by car

This baby Brushtail possum has had a tough start in life.

Only a few inches in length he has to be fed - carefully - using a tube and a syringe.

After his mother was hit and killed by a car in the outer suburbs of Sydney, Australia, the tiny possum was rescued by Sydney Metropolitan Wildlife, a voluntary organisation that is dedicated to caring for Sydney's sick, injured or orphaned native animals.

Brushtails are among the best known of Australia's possums as they thrive in urban environments and often come into contact with people.

When fully-grown, this lucky little marsupial will grow to around 50cms in length.