• Fri. Feb 7th, 2025

Is It Bad to Have Possums Around Your House? How to Keep Them Away

ByTahlia Mills

Dec 11, 2024
A closeup shot of a possum with its mouth open looking forward sitting behind the grass

Possums are nocturnal marsupials native to Australia that play a vital role in the ecosystem. Despite their ecological importance, having them around your house can pose certain challenges.

This article delves into the potential downsides of possum activity near your property and provides practical tips to keep them away without harming them.

Why Are Possums Around Your House?

Possums are attracted to areas that provide food, shelter, and safety. Common reasons they might frequent your property include:

  • Accessible Food Sources: Fruit trees, vegetable gardens, pet food, and household waste can attract possums.
  • Shelter: Possums often seek shelter in roof cavities, sheds, or dense foliage.
  • Warmth and Safety: Urban areas can be safer for possums compared to the wild, where predators or habitat destruction pose threats.

Is It Bad to Have Possums Around?

While possums are generally harmless, their presence near your home can lead to certain issues:

1. Roof Damage

Possums are notorious for seeking refuge in roof cavities. Their constant scratching, nesting, and movement can damage insulation and wiring, creating costly repairs.

2. Noise Disturbance

As nocturnal animals, possums are most active at night. Their movements can disrupt your sleep with scratching, thumping, and vocalizations.

3. Health Risks

Possums can carry parasites like ticks, fleas, and mites, which may spread to pets or humans. Their droppings can also contaminate surfaces and pose health hazards.

4. Garden Damage

Possums are herbivores that enjoy munching on fruits, vegetables, and flowers, potentially wreaking havoc on your garden.

Legal Protections for Possums

In Australia, possums are a protected species under the Wildlife Act. It is illegal to harm or relocate them without a proper license. This means you need to adopt humane and legal methods to manage their presence around your property.

How to Keep Possums Away

If possums are causing issues near your home, consider these humane strategies to deter them:

1. Remove Food Sources

  • Secure rubbish bins with tight-fitting lids.
  • Avoid leaving pet food outside overnight.
  • Pick up fallen fruit from trees regularly.
  • Cover vegetable patches and fruit trees with netting.

2. Block Entry Points

Secure your home for possible entry points and seal them to prevent possums from accessing roof cavities or sheds. Use materials like galvanized mesh or steel wool for durability.

  • Trim tree branches near the roof to reduce access.
  • Ensure vents, chimneys, and gaps in walls are adequately covered.

3. Use Repellents

Possums are deterred by strong smells. Natural repellents include:

  • Garlic Spray: Mix crushed garlic with water and spray it around areas frequented by possums.
  • Quassia Chips: These can be boiled in water, and the solution sprayed in gardens.
  • Commercial Repellents: Look for possum-specific products that are safe for plants and pets.

4. Install Motion-Activated Devices

Devices such as motion-activated sprinklers or lights can startle possums and discourage them from visiting your property.

5. Provide Alternative Shelter

If possums are nesting in your roof, consider providing a nesting box in a nearby tree. This gives them a safe alternative shelter and reduces their need to seek refuge in your home.

6. Use Fencing and Barriers

Install possum-proof fencing around gardens. Ensure the top of the fence is curved outward to prevent climbing.

Humane Possum Removal

If a possum has already made its way into your roof or property:

  • Consult a Professional: Hire a licensed wildlife removal expert to safely handle the situation.
  • Install a One-Way Door: These allow the possum to exit but not re-enter. Be sure to seal the entry point once the possum is gone.

Long-Term Maintenance

Keeping possums away requires ongoing effort. Regularly inspect your property for new entry points, maintain barriers, and promptly address factors that may attract possums.

Community Awareness

Encourage neighbors to adopt similar measures to prevent possum activity. A collective effort ensures a larger area is unattractive to possums.

When to Seek Professional Help

If possum activity becomes unmanageable, consider consulting with Expert Pest Control for guidance. They can provide tailored solutions to deter possums while complying with wildlife protection laws.

Conclusion

While possums play a crucial ecological role, having them around your house can result in noise, damage, and health concerns. By understanding their behavior and using humane deterrents, you can manage their presence effectively.

Always remember to respect these native creatures and adhere to wildlife protection regulations. With the right approach, you can maintain harmony between your home and the natural world.