Embedded Files
Hearing that familiar scratching and scurrying in your roof at night? You have probably got a possum who thinks your ceiling is the perfect spot for a home, but a good possum box plan can give them a much better alternative.
Instead of seeing them as pests, we can offer these native animals a safe place to live.
Well-designed possum nesting boxes gives them a cosy, secure shelter that mimics the natural hollows they seek.
With a thoughtful possum box plan, you can live peacefully alongside your local native wildlife.
Have Questions?
Why a Solid Possum Box Plan Matters
Why a Solid Possum Box Plan Matters
You might think any old box will do, but that is not quite right. A proper plan considers the possum's needs, keeping them safe from predators and the weather.
This makes the wildlife box a far more attractive home than your roof cavity, which often leads them to become a problem.
A good box is a humane solution for possum removal, a method strongly supported by wildlife carers.
Once a possum is excluded from your home, it needs a new place to go.
Giving them a purpose-built possum nest nearby increases the chances they will move in and leave your property alone.
It also helps the local ecosystem, as the clearing of land has led to a shortage of natural tree hollows.
Possums play a part in our suburban environment, and giving them suitable homes helps maintain that natural balance.
Your backyard can become a small sanctuary for our native critters, an act that honours the spirit of the land cared for by Traditional Custodians for millennia.
What Makes a Great Possum Box?
What Makes a Great Possum Box?
Building an effective possum box starts with understanding what these animals need. A few key possum nest box design features can make all the difference.
This can mean the difference between an empty box and a happy possum tenant.
Getting the Size Right
Getting the Size Right
Australia is home to different types of possums, mainly the common brushtail possums and the smaller common ringtail possums.
Each needs a box sized for their specific needs.
A box that is too small will be uncomfortable, while one that is too large will not feel secure and may not provide enough warmth during the winter months.
The entry hole is just as important as the box design itself. It needs to be a large entry hole, big enough for the possum but small enough to keep out larger predators or pests.
Getting these dimensions right is a huge part of your plan's success; some native birds like the eastern rosella may also use boxes with the right-sized hole.
Common Brushtail Possum
Internal Box Size (approx.) - 20cm x 20cm x 40cm
Entrance Hole Diameter - 10cm
Common Ringtail Possum
Internal Box Size (approx.) - 18cm x 18cm x 30cm
Entrance Hole Diameter - 8cm
Sugar Gliders & Pygmy Possum
Internal Box Size (approx.) - 15cm x 15cm x 25cm
Entrance Hole Diameter - 3-4cm
Choosing Safe Materials
Choosing Safe Materials
The materials you pick are critical for the possum's health and the longevity of the nesting box. You should always use untreated timber for any wildlife boxes.
Untreated pine or a quality marine ply are great options because they stand up to the weather well; look for materials certified by the Forest Stewardship Council.
Never use treated pine (CCA), as the chemicals can be toxic to wildlife when licked or chewed.
Likewise, avoid materials like particleboard or MDF, as this type of material disintegrates rapidly outdoors.
A box that disintegrates rapidly offers poor insulation and will fail to protect the animals.
Essential Design Features
Essential Design Features
A few simple additions will make your possum box much more effective and inviting. A sloping roof helps rainwater run off, keeping the inside of the possum nest dry.
A couple of small 5-10 mm drainage holes drilled in the floor are also a must to prevent any water from pooling inside.
Possums, especially young possums, need grip to climb. The inside surfaces of the box, particularly below the entrance, should be rough.
You can score the wood with a saw or attach a small ladder made of mesh or a branch inside to provide comfort and grip.
Your Step-by-Step Possum Box Building Plan
Your Step-by-Step Possum Box Building Plan
Ready to build one yourself? Following a clear possum box plan from sources like local council design booklets is the best way to get a great result.
It is a rewarding project that directly helps your local wildlife.
Gather Your Tools & Materials You will need a saw, drill, tape measure, and screws. For materials, get a sheet of untreated marine ply (around 15mm thick), some external screws and wood glue. Safety gear like glasses and gloves is a good idea too.
Cut the Pieces Carefully measure and cut your plywood pieces according to the dimensions for your local possum species, whether building a brushtail possum box or a ringtail possum box. You will need a front, back, two sides, a floor, and a slightly larger roof piece for an overhang. Many nest box design booklets online provide detailed cutting plans.
Assemble the Box Start by applying wood glue to the joints before attaching the sides to the floor piece, then add the front and back. Use exterior-grade screws or head nails to make sure the box is sturdy and securely fastened. Attach the roof with optional hinges so you can open it for inspection and cleaning.
The Finishing Touches Drill the entry hole in the front panel before you assemble the box. Do not forget to drill a few small mm drainage holes in the floor. Lastly, add some grip inside and consider adding some dry, dead leaves or shredded bark as nesting material to get them started.
Placement is Everything: Where to Install Your Box
Placement is Everything: Where to Install Your Box
Building one of the possum boxes is only half the job. Where you put it will determine if a possum ever moves in.
A poorly placed box will likely stay empty, a common story found in nest box tales from new builders.
Finding the Perfect Tree
Finding the Perfect Tree
Look for a sturdy, mature tree that offers some shade and protection from the elements. You should mount the box about 3 to 4 metres off the ground.
This height keeps the possums live and safe from ground predators like cats and dogs.
Make sure there are clear branches leading to the box so the possum has an easy pathway.
According to wildlife rescue experts like WIRES, a safe location away from driveways and noisy areas is best.
The needs of a brushtail possum ringtail possum can differ, with ringtails often preferring denser foliage.
The Right Way to Mount It
The Right Way to Mount It
When you mount the box, try not to damage the tree. You can drilling directly into the tree or you can use a strap system or wire that is threaded through a protective piece of garden hose. This simple trick prevents the wire from cutting into the bark and allows for tree growth.
The large entry should face away from the direction of prevailing winds and the hot afternoon sun. This simple step keeps the box comfortable all year round. In many parts of Australia, this means facing it south-east or north-east to avoid the harshest weather.
Conclusion
Conclusion
Creating a safe home for our native possums is a wonderful way to contribute to your local environment.
It is a humane and effective method to keep them out of your roof space for good.
From the brushtail possum to the possum ringtail possum, providing nesting boxes is a great way to support local biodiversity.
A successful project comes down to having a good possum box plan from the start.
This includes considering everything from the materials and size to where you ultimately place it.
Following these steps gives a possum a great new home and gives you back your peace and quiet.
The Possum Man is the trusted name in possum box installation, offering a reliable and effective solution to your possum problems.
With over 20 years of hands-on experience, we not only supply high-quality possum boxes but also specialise in identifying the ideal placement to give your furry visitors the best chance of taking up residence.
If you don’t already have a possum box, we can supply and install one for you—positioned strategically to encourage use and provide a safe alternative to your roof.
Our reputation is built on proven results and expert knowledge in humane possum management.
Our services cover all aspects of possum control.
This includes finding how they're getting in. We then install possum-proof barriers.
These barriers stop them from returning. We also use one-way door systems. This lets the possums leave but not come back.
It’s a safe and effective way to handle possum problems
Here's what else we can do for you:
Install possum-proof barriers
Remove deceased possums from roofs
Install steel gutter guards to prevent re-entry
If you're a homeowner, business owner, real estate agent, or part of a strata, we can help. We offer solutions tailored to your specific needs.
Don't let possums disrupt your property. Get in touch for a possum box supply and install and a reliable and humane possum removal.
Have Questions?
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse