Possums may look cute from a distance, but when they invade your roof, walls, or backyard, they can quickly become a serious nuisance. Their scratching sounds, night-time activity, and property damage can disrupt your peace and create genuine health hazards. In Australia, possums are a protected species, which means only approved and humane possum removal specialists can legally handle them. This detailed guide explains everything a homeowner needs to know-from identifying a possum infestation to understanding when it’s time to call a professional, and what to expect during a humane and legally compliant removal process.
Understanding Possums and Why They Invade Homes
Australia is home to several possum species, but the Common Brushtail Possum and Common Ringtail Possum are the ones most likely to enter residential properties.Why Possums Enter Homes
Possums are driven by three main needs:- Shelter:Roof cavities offer warmth, safety from predators, and ideal nesting conditions.
- Food:Gardens, fruit trees, compost bins, and pet food attract possums in search of a meal.
- Breeding Sites:Possums look for quiet, protected areas to raise their young.
Common Signs of a Possum Infestation
A possum infestation rarely goes unnoticed. Understanding the signs helps you act quickly before the infestation escalates.1. Heavy Scratching or Thumping Noises at Night
Possums are nocturnal, so most homeowners hear:- Loud thumps
- Running sounds
- Scratching on timber or plaster
- Gnawing noises
2. Strong, Unpleasant Odours
Possums have a distinct musky smell. If a possum urinates repeatedly in your roof space, the odour becomes strong and persistent.3. Roof or Gutter Damage
Possums often force their way into:- Weak roof tiles
- Gable vents
- Eaves
- Broken tiles
- Guttering gaps
4. Droppings in the Roof or Around the Property
Possum droppings are larger than rodent droppings and often scattered in clusters.5. Scratches on External Walls or Trees
Possums use trees, fences, or downpipes to climb onto roofs, leaving scratch marks or worn paths.6. Garden Damage
Missing fruit, stripped shrubs, or chewed bark are strong indicators. If you’ve spotted several of these signs, you may have one or more possums nesting in your home.Why You Should Act Quickly
Ignoring a possum infestation doesn’t make the problem go away-it makes it worse. Potential Risks Include:1. Structural Damage
Possums can chew electrical wires, insulation, and plaster, which may lead to:- House fires
- Costly repairs
- Weakened structural materials
2. Health Concerns
Possums carry:- Mites
- Fleas
- Lice
- Bacteria through droppings and urine
3. Noise Disturbance
Their night-time activity disrupts sleep, affecting your health and well-being.4. Breeding
A single pregnant possum can turn a small problem into a big infestation very quickly.When to Call Professional Help
While it may be tempting to handle the situation yourself, Professional Possum removal is strictly regulated. Under Australian law, possums cannot be harmed, relocated far from the capture site, or handled without a permit.You Should Call Humane Possum Removal Specialists If:
1. You Hear Noises Regularly in the Roof
Consistent night-time activity indicates a settled possum, not a passing visitor.2. You See Entry Points or Roof Damage
Any gap is a potential nest site that requires professional inspection and sealing.3. You Notice Strong Odours or Droppings
This often signals more than one possum or a long-term infestation.4. Your DIY Attempts Don’t Work
Home remedies like lights, noise, or store-bought repellents rarely provide long-term solutions.5. A Possum Is Trapped Inside Your Home
This requires immediate professional attention to avoid harm to both the animal and your property.6. You Find a Baby Possum Alone or Injured
Experts handle young possums with care and in compliance with wildlife laws. When in doubt, always prioritise legal and humane handling by licensed specialists.Why You Should Only Use Humane Possum Removal Specialists
The key focus should always be on humane and legal methods-not traps or harmful chemicals. Legal Requirements in Australia A possum must:- Be caught only by licensed handlers
- Be released on the same property, within 50 metres of the capture site
- Be handled without injury
- Never be relocated to unfamiliar habitats
Benefits of Hiring Humane Possum Removal Specialists
1. Expertise in Possum Behaviour
Professionals understand possum habits and can identify hidden nesting areas.2. Safe and Legal Removal
They use government-approved, humane traps and methods.3. Long-Term Prevention
Professionals not only remove the possum but also:- Seal all entry points
- Provide tailored prevention strategies
- Repair damage where needed
4. No Risk to the Animal or Your Home
Avoids injuries, stress, or accidents caused by untrained individuals.What Happens During a Professional Possum Removal Service?
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how humane possum removal specialists typically manage the process.1. Thorough Inspection
The specialist will check:- Roof cavity
- External roofline
- Gutters and vents
- Trees or climbing points
- Entry and exit routes
- Number of possums present
- Nesting materials
- Extent of damage
2. Identification of Entry Points
Possums usually enter through:- Broken tiles
- Loose sheets or flashing
- Vent gaps
- Wall cavities
3. Setting Humane Traps (If Required)
Licensed handlers use approved cage traps that do not cause harm. Traps are:- Placed strategically
- Monitored regularly
- Baited legally and safely
4. Safe Capture and Release
Once captured:- The possum is checked for injury
- It is released in the early evening
- Release occurs within 50 metresof capture to comply with law
5. Sealing Entry Points
After removal, specialists block off all access points using:- Metal mesh
- Timber
- Tile repairs
- Heavy-duty sealants
6. Installing Possum Boxes (Optional)
To keep possums away from your roof while providing a safe alternative, specialists often recommend installing a possum nest box in your garden. This is humane, sustainable, and helps prevent future infestations.7. Final Inspection and Recommendations
Professionals provide:- Photos of repairs
- Prevention tips
- Regular maintenance advice
How to Prevent Possum Infestations in the Future
While hiring humane possum removal specialists ensures immediate relief, prevention prevents future headaches.1. Seal Food Sources
- Secure garbage bins
- Remove fallen fruits
- Avoid leaving pet food outside
2. Maintain Your Garden
- Trim tree branches hanging near the roof
- Clear overgrown shrubs
- Remove climbing points
3. Repair Roof Damage Promptly
Small gaps can be big invitations for possums.4. Install Motion-Sensor Lights
Possums prefer dark, quiet entry routes.5. Install Possum Boxes
Providing alternative shelter reduces roof invasions.Frequently Asked Questions
- Are possums dangerous?
- Can I remove a possum myself?
- What is the cost of possum removal?
- How quickly can professionals remove a possum?
