Spring is a season of growth and renewal, but it’s also when wildlife, including possums, becomes more active. These nocturnal marsupials, while an essential part of Australia’s ecosystem, can cause disturbances when they venture too close to homes. From nesting in roofs to raiding gardens, possums can disrupt your peace if not managed effectively.
we’ll explore practical, humane strategies to possum removal from your home this spring. Whether you’re dealing with a persistent visitor or want to prevent future issues, these tips will help you maintain a possum-free property while respecting their role in nature.
Why Are Possums More Active in Spring?
Spring is a busy time for possums as they search for food, shelter, and nesting spots for their young. The combination of blooming gardens and accessible roofs makes homes particularly attractive to them during this season.
Possums may be come to your property by:
- Abundant Food Sources: Spring gardens are filled with fruits, vegetables, and flowers that possums find irresistible.
- Shelter Opportunities: Roof spaces, attics, and sheds provide safe, warm nesting spots.
- Tree Access: Overhanging branches make it easy for possums to climb onto roofs.
Understanding why possums are attracted to your home is the first step in keeping them away.
Tips to Keep Possums Away From Your Home
1. Secure Your Roof and Home
Possums often enter roofs and attics looking for shelter, which can cause noise and potential damage.
- Inspect for Entry Points: Check for gaps, broken tiles, or holes in your roof and walls.
- Seal Openings: Use sturdy materials like metal mesh or timber to close any access points.
- Install Chimney Guards: Possums can climb into chimneys to nest, so secure them with covers.
- Clear Your Roof Space: Possums are less likely to settle in an empty, uninviting roof space.
2. Trim Trees and Remove Access Points
Possums are skilled climbers and frequently rely on tree branches to reach rooftops
- Prune Overhanging Branches: Ensure branches are at least 1.5 metres away from your roofline.
- Remove Climbing Structures: Vines and trellises near your home can serve as ladders for possums.
3. Remove Food Sources
Eliminating attractants from your garden and property can discourage possums from visiting.
- Pick Up Fallen Fruits: Regularly clean up fallen fruits and vegetables from your garden..
- Avoid Leaving Pet Food Outside: Bring pet food inside at night or store it in sealed containers.
4. Use Natural Possum Deterrents
Possums dislike certain smells and disturbances, making natural deterrents an effective solution.
- Garlic or Chilli Spray: Mix garlic or chilli flakes with water and spray it on plants and around entry points.
- Camphor or Eucalyptus Oil: Dilute the oil in water and spray it near known possum paths.
- Motion-Activated Devices: Install lights or sprinklers that activate when possums approach. These devices can startle them without causing harm.
5. Provide Alternative Habitats
If possums are frequent visitors, providing an alternative habitat can redirect them away from your home.
- Install Possum Boxes: Place possum boxes in trees away from your house. These provide a safe space for possums to nest and reduce their need to enter your roof.
- Encourage Natural Shelter: Ensure nearby trees or shrubs offer adequate cover for possums.
When to Consider Professional Possum Removal
If your DIY efforts fail to keep possums away, it might be time to seek professional help. Licensed possum removal experts are trained to handle possums safely and humanely. They can also advise on preventative measures to stop possums from returning.
Professional removal ensures compliance with Australian wildlife laws, which mandate that possums must be relocated within 50 metres of their capture site to preserve their ecosystem and wellbeing.
Contact Us
Are possums disrupting your home this spring? Let us help! Our licensed professional possum removal experts provide safe, humane, and effective solutions tailored to your needs. Contact us today to protect your home while respecting Australia’s native wildlife.
Conclusion
Springtime possum activity can be a challenge, but it’s possible to coexist peacefully with these native creatures. By securing your home, removing food sources, and using natural deterrents, you can prevent possums from becoming a nuisance.
For persistent problems, professional possum removal services can provide the expertise and support needed to ensure a safe and legal resolution. Take action today to enjoy a peaceful spring free from possum disturbances!
FAQs About Keeping Possums Away
Possums are protected under Australian laws. It is illegal to harm or relocate them far from their capture site. If possums are causing issues, always use humane methods or consult a licensed possum removal professional.
Signs of a possum in your roof include scratching or thumping noises at night, droppings, and damage to insulation or wiring.
Published on: January 24, 2025