Possum Proofing Tips forYour Aussie Home 

Possums are fascinating creatures that often get a bad rap.

These nocturnal marsupials have adapted remarkably well to urban environments, sometimes a bit too well for our liking.

As a professional possum removalist I've seen firsthand how these clever animals can become unwelcome guests in homes and businesses.

But before we dive into the world of possum control, let's take a closer look at these misunderstood creatures.

Understanding possums is the first step in learning how to coexist with them peacefully or, when necessary, remove them safely and humanely.

Types of Possums in Australia

Australia is home to more than 25 species of possums, each with its own distinct characteristics and preferred habitats.

While many are found in forests and woodlands, a few have adapted well to urban life.

The two species you’re most likely to encounter in towns and cities are the Brushtail Possum and the Ringtail Possum , but several other species play an important role in Australia’s native ecosystems.

Brushtail Possums

Brushtail possums ( Trichosurus vulpecula ) are the largest and most common species in urban areas, typically weighing between 2 and 4 kilograms.

They have a distinctive bushy tail, large rounded ears, and a coat colour that ranges from grey to brown with a pale underside.

Known for their adaptability, brushtails often take up residence in roof spaces, wall cavities, or sheds, and they can be noisy at night with their grunts, coughs, and growls.

Ringtail Possums

Ringtail possums ( Pseudocheirus peregrinus ) are smaller, weighing between 700 grams and 1 kilogram.

They are easily recognised by their long, prehensile tail tipped with white, which they use for balance and carrying nesting material.

Ringtails typically build spherical nests called dreys in trees and shrubs, preferring gardens, parks, and bushland over roof spaces.

Other Less Common Species

Australia is also home to several possum species that are less often seen in urban environments but can occasionally be encountered:

Sugar Gliders (Petaurus breviceps )

Small, nocturnal possums capable of gliding between trees using a skin membrane between their limbs. They are mostly found in forests and woodlands.

Feathertail Gliders (Acrobates pygmaeus )

The world’s smallest gliding mammal, weighing as little as 10 grams, with a tail shaped like a feather for balance.

Greater Gliders (Petauroides volans )

Larger gliding possums that can glide for over 100 metres, primarily found in tall eucalypt forests.

Western Ringtail Possums (Pseudocheirus occidentalis )

A threatened species found mainly in south-western Western Australia, distinguished from common ringtails by darker fur and a smaller range.

Green Ringtail Possums (Pseudochirops archeri )

Found in tropical rainforests of north Queensland, with distinctive greenish fur that provides camouflage among the leaves.

All possum species in Australia are protected under state and territory licensed wildlife laws.

Any control or relocation measures must be carried out humanely and in accordance with relevant regulations, ensuring the welfare of these unique native animals.

Legal Requirements by State

For full details on how to legally remove possums in your area, select your state or territory below:

• NSW – New South Wales

• VIC – Victoria

• SA – South Australia

• QLD – Queensland

• WA – Western Australia

• TAS – Tasmania

• ACT – Australian Capital Territory

• NT – Northern Territory

Possum Behaviour and Habits

Understanding possum behaviour is crucial for effective management. Here are some key things to know about these nocturnal creatures:

• Possums are primarily active at night, emerging from their nests at dusk to forage for food.

• They are excellent climbers, using their sharp possum claws and prehensile tails to navigate trees and buildings with ease.

• Possums are omnivores, eating a variety of foods including fruits, leaves, flowers, and insects.

• They have a strong homing instinct and will often return to their territory even if relocated.

• Breeding season typically occurs in autumn and spring, with females giving birth to one or two joeys at a time.

These behaviours can make possums challenging to manage when they decide to take up residence in human-occupied spaces.

Why Possums Become a Nuisance

While possums play an important role in our ecosystem, they can become problematic when they move into our living spaces. Some common issues include:

Property Damage

Possums in roof spaces can cause significant damage. They may tear up insulation, chew through electrical wiring, or damage ceiling materials.

This not only leads to costly repairs but can also pose safety risks.

Noise Disturbances

The scratching, thumping, and vocalizations of possums can be quite disruptive, especially at night when they're most active.

This can lead to sleepless nights for homeowners.

Hygiene Concerns

Possum droppings and urine can accumulate in roof spaces, leading to unpleasant odors and potential health hazards.

While possums don't typically carry diseases that affect humans, their waste can attract other pests.

Garden Destruction

Possums love to feast on fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants.

They can wreak havoc on carefully tended gardens, much to the frustration of green-thumbed homeowners.

Legal Considerations for Possum Control

It's important to note that possums are protected under Australian law . This means there are strict regulations governing how they can be managed.

Some key points to remember:

• It's illegal to harm or kill possums.

• Trapping and relocating possums requires a permit in most areas.

• If trapping is permitted, you must release possum within 25–150 metres of where it was caught, depending on the regulations in your state.

• Any possum control measures must be carried out humanely.

Always check with your local wildlife authority for the most up-to-date regulations in your area.

Possum Removal Techniques

Professional possum removalist should always advocate for humane methods of possum control. Here are some effective techniques:

Exclusion

The most effective long-term solution is to prevent possums from entering your property in the first place.

This involves identifying and sealing off potential entry points. Common access points include:

• Gaps in roof tiles or eaves

• Holes in walls or foundations

• Uncapped chimneys

• Tree branches overhanging roofs

Professional conduct a thorough inspection and seal these entry points using durable materials that possums can't chew through like heavily galvanised tin or galvanised chicken wire.

One-Way Doors

For possums already in your roof space, one-way doors also know as a one-way flap can be an effective removal method.

These devices allow possums to exit but prevent them from re-entering. Once the possum has left, the entry point can be permanently sealed, as a possum attempts to regain access once removed.

Possum Trappers and Relocation

Professional possum trappers are trained to deal with these situations safely, legally, and humanely.

A skilled possum trapper begins by identifying the species—most commonly the Common Brushtail Possums or the Common Ringtail Possums in Sydney.

This is important because each species has different habits and behaviours.

Using this knowledge, they set up humane live cage trap designed to catch the animal without harm, often baited with food that appeals to possums.

Once the possum is trapped, it must be released according to NSW law —within a set distance from where it was caught.

It is a known fact that 70% of possums die when they released beyond the legally permitted distance from predators or starvation.

A professional possum trapper understands these regulations and follows them carefully, ensuring the animal’s welfare while resolving the issue for the property owner. They also understand

They also take preventative measures, such as sealing entry points, trimming overhanging branches, and removing food sources to reduce the chance of re-entry.

Hiring a licensed wildlife controllers is essential, as possums are protected native animals and cannot be harmed or relocated unlawfully.

By engaging an expert, you ensure the problem is dealt with quickly, humanely, and in compliance with the law—protecting both your property and the possums themselves.

Possum Removalist

A possum removalist is responsible for managing possums and their related problems in a way that protects both the property and the animal.

Unlike general pest controllers, possum removalists operate within strict wildlife protection laws in New South Wales , as possums are a native species and cannot be harmed.

Their work is a mix of problem-solving, legal compliance, and preventative maintenance.

One of the key skills of a possum removalist is the ability to assess how and why possums are entering a building.

This often involves inspecting roofs, eaves, vents, and other potential access points.

They also consider environmental factors, such as nearby trees or structures, that may give possums easy access.

This investigative approach helps ensure that the removal process addresses the root cause, not just the immediate problem.

Removalists use humane methods approved under NSW regulations , which may include one-way doors that allow possums to leave but not return, or relocation within the legally permitted distance if trapping is required.

They also ensure the process happens at an appropriate time of day to minimise stress on the animal and reduce the risk of separating mothers from their young.

Prevention is a major part of the job.

After removal, a possum removalist may install proofing materials, recommend habitat alternatives such as possum boxes also know as nest boxes, and provide guidance on long-term deterrents.

By combining legal knowledge, humane handling techniques, and preventative strategies, possum removalists help ensure that possums can coexist with humans without becoming unwanted houseguests.

Possum Catcher

A possum catcher is a person licensed to capture and handle possums in accordance with wildlife protection laws .

In New South Wales, possums are protected native animals, meaning they cannot be harmed, relocated long distances, or dealt with using general pest control methods.

The role of a possum catcher is to resolve conflicts between people and possums in a way that is safe, legal, and humane.

Possum catchers are often called in when a possum has become trapped in a roof space, shed, or other confined area.

They use approved live-capture equipment designed to minimise stress and prevent injury to the animal.

Timing is important—catching a possum at the wrong time of day can leave dependent young behind, so a trained catcher will inspect for signs of breeding before removal.

Once caught, possums must be released within a short distance of the capture site to remain in their territory, as required under NSW regulations .

Possum catchers also work to prevent the problem from recurring by identifying likely access points and advising on repairs, barriers, or changes to the environment that make the property less accessible to possums.

The work of a possum catcher isn’t just about removing an animal—it’s about balancing the needs of property owners with the welfare of protected wildlife.

By following the law, using humane methods, and providing preventative recommendations, possum catchers help ensure possums can live safely in their natural habitat without causing ongoing issues for people.

Deterrents and Prevention

Once possums have been removed, many companies will try to sell you products or “treatments” claiming to keep them away for good.

These are often marketed as quick, easy fixes—but the truth is, most of them provide no lasting protection.

They may sound convincing, but in practice they do little or nothing to stop possums from returning.

Here are some of the most common examples you’ll see promoted:

Light and Sound

You may be told that motion-activated lights or leaving radios on in the roof space will deter possums, as they prefer dark, quiet areas.

While this might cause temporary disturbance, possums quickly adapt, making this approach ineffective long-term.

Scent Deterrents

Commercial possum repellents, mothballs, or ammonia-soaked rags are often advertised as effective ways to repel possums.

In reality, any effect is short-lived—possum behaviour is not significantly altered once they become accustomed to the smell.

Garden Protection

Products like motion-activated sprinklers, netting for fruit trees and vegetable gardens, planting “possum-resistant” plants, or removing fallen fruit are all marketed as ways to protect your garden.

While some may reduce minor foraging, they do not prevent determined possums from accessing your property.

Possum Guard

Unlike the deterrents above, possum guards can be effective in certain situations.

These are physical barriers, usually made of metal or durable plastic, fitted around tree trunks, poles, or overhead cables to prevent possums from climbing.

When correctly installed in the right locations, they may stop possums from reaching access points that lead to your roof or other parts of your property.

However, they are most effective when used alongside proper possum-proofing and sealing of entry points.

The bottom line: while possum guards can help in some scenarios, most quick-fix deterrents are a waste of money.

The only long-term solution is to identify and block entry points so possums can’t get back in.

Living with Possums

While it's understandable to want possums out of our living spaces, it's worth remembering that they play an important role in our ecosystem.

They help control insects and assist in pollination and seed dispersal.

If possums are visiting your yard but not causing significant problems, consider creating a possum-friendly space away from your house.

This could include:

• Installing a possum box in a tree away from your home.

• Planting native species that provide food for possums.

• Providing a water source away from your house.

By giving possums an alternative habitat, you may be able to enjoy their presence without the associated problems.

Possum Box

A possum box is a great alternative. It gives them shelter and keeps them out of your house. It's a win-win.

But how do you pick the right one? And where should you put it?

Choosing the Right Possum Box

First, consider the type of possum in your area. In Sydney, we mostly see two kinds: the Common Brushtail and the Ringtail. Brushtails are bigger.

They need a larger box. Ringtails, however, are smaller. They prefer something more compact.

Make sure the box is sturdy and weather-proof.

This is important for the possum's comfort and safety. You can buy them, or you can build one.

Where to Place Your Possum Box

Location is key. Put the box in a tree, if you can. Pick a spot that's sheltered from wind and rain.

Face the entrance away from direct sunlight. Possums like quiet spots.

The higher the better. This makes them feel safe from predators.

Also, near their food source is ideal. This might be a tree with tasty leaves or flowers.

Conclusion

While some possum control measures can be DIY, there are times when it's best to call in the experts. Consider professional help if:

• You're unsure about the legalities of possum control in your area.

• The possum problem is persistent or severe.

• You're dealing with a mother possum with babies.

• There's significant property damage.

• You're uncomfortable handling wildlife.

Professional possum removalists have the knowledge, experience, and equipment to handle possum problems safely and effectively.

Living with possums can be challenging, but with the right approach, it's possible to find a balance.

Understanding possum behaviour, implementing preventive measures, and using humane removal techniques when necessary can help you manage these fascinating creatures effectively.

Remember, possums living in our environment are an important part of the ecosystem.

By treating them with respect and using ethical control methods, we can coexist peacefully with these nocturnal neighbours.

Have Questions?

email: solutions@thepossumman.com.au