If you’ve found yourself dealing with a possum problem, you’re not alone. To help you manage the situation effectively and responsibly, we’ve compiled answers to some of the most common questions homeowners ask about humane possum removal.
What Does Humane Possum Removal Mean?
Humane possum removal is the ethical, non-lethal relocation of possums from homes or commercial properties. The main goal is to protect possums’ welfare while safeguarding your property from further damage.
Typically, the process involves catching the possum using approved traps, then relocating it no more than 50 metres from the capture site, as required by Australian law.
To help the animal adapt after relocation, professionals often provide a suitable alternative habitat nearby, such as a possum box. Certified wildlife handlers usually manage the entire process, ensuring it meets legal requirements and minimises stress to the animal.
Is It Legal to Remove Possums From My Property?
Yes, removing possums is legal in Australia, but it comes with strict regulations. Under the National Parks and Wildlife Act, possums are a protected species. This means it’s illegal to harm them or relocate them beyond 50 metres from where they are captured. These laws ensure possums can remain part of their natural ecosystem without undue harm.
Using a licensed wildlife handler is strongly recommended to manage compliance and handle the removal process ethically.
Why Can’t I Relocate Possums Farther Than 50 Metres?
You might wonder why you can’t just relocate a possum far away to a local park or forest. The 50-metre rule protects the possum’s chances of survival. Possums are territorial creatures that often rely on specific food sources and shelter within their established territories.
Moving them farther than this limit increases their stress and significantly decreases their survival odds due to competition with other possums or predators.
By keeping them close, you give them the best possible chance to adapt to a new, safer space while maintaining balance in the local ecosystem.
What Are the Risks of Handling Possums Myself?
Removing a possum yourself might seem simple, but it comes with several important risks. Legally, without the proper permits or knowledge, you could easily violate wildlife protection laws and face hefty fines. Attempting to remove the animal can also put significant stress on it. Anxious possums may injure themselves trying to escape or become aggressive if threatened.
Finally, handling a frightened possum raises the chance of personal injury from bites or scratches, and this may expose you to infections. For these reasons, engaging a licensed professional is always the safest and most humane choice.
What Are the Signs I Have a Possum Problem?
Early signs of possum activity can help you avoid costly property damage and potential health risks. You may notice unusual scratching, rustling, or scampering noises at night, especially in your walls or ceilings, which often indicate a possum moving about.
Other red flags include the appearance of droppings in your roofline, garden, or attic areas, as well as unpleasant odours from urine or nesting materials. Damage, such as missing roof tiles or evidence of disturbed gardens and chewed plants, can also signal their presence.
If you observe any combination of these warning signs, it’s wise to call a wildlife handler for a professional assessment.
What Are Humane Methods for Possum Removal?
Humane possum removal puts the animal’s welfare first and follows Australian wildlife laws. Typically, a licensed wildlife handler catches possums using approved traps that minimise the animal’s stress.
To encourage possums to relocate on their own, professionals may provide possum boxes nearby as an alternative to their natural nests. Once it’s confirmed that no possums remain inside, the handler will seal roof gaps, vents, or chimneys to block future entry.
Habitat adjustments, such as trimming tree branches near the roof or removing food sources, can further deter possums from returning. Each step is designed to resolve the issue in an ethical, safe, and effective manner.
Why Should I Hire a Professional for Possum Removal?
Handling possum removal yourself can quickly become overwhelming. Enlisting a professional ensures:
- Compliance with Australian laws
- Effective and ethical handling and relocation
- Advice on future prevention measures to possum-proof your property
- Professionals have experience using techniques that minimise risks for both humans and animals.
Are Humane Removal Methods Effective?
Yes! Humane removal methods are highly effective when implemented by experts. By sealing entry points, modifying habitats, and relocating possums ethically, professionals ensure that they cannot return to your property.
Additionally, alternative nesting solutions, such as possum boxes, help redirect them to a new, suitable location.
What Are the Benefits of Humane Possum Removal?
Choosing humane removal methods offers several important benefits for your family, property, and local wildlife. Promptly removing possums helps prevent further damage to your home’s structure, wiring, and insulation. It also protects your family from health risks associated with possum droppings and parasites.
By following ethical standards, you ensure no harm comes to these protected animals and that you remain compliant with Australia’s environmental laws. Ultimately, humane approaches also help preserve the balance of our native ecosystems, supporting the well-being of both people and wildlife.
How Can I Prevent Possums From Returning?
The best way to prevent future possum problems is to make your home unappealing as a nesting site. Begin by sealing entry points – use mesh, screens, or other materials to block access to your roof, vents, or chimneys. Trim back tree branches that offer possums an easy route onto your roof, and be sure to keep pet food, birdseed, and fallen fruit cleared away outdoors to avoid attracting wildlife.
For a lasting solution, consider installing possum boxes in trees away from your house. These provide a safe, alternative shelter and encourage possums to settle away from your roof while staying in their natural territory.
Building a Safer Home for Everyone
Possums are an integral part of Australia’s biodiversity, but they can cause significant issues when they take up residence in your home. By addressing possum activity early and employing humane and ethical removal strategies, you can protect your property while respecting these incredible creatures.
If you’re experiencing signs of possum activity, don’t go it alone. Contact licensed wildlife removal experts, Possum Busters, who can guide you through the process safely, responsibly, and in compliance with the law. This way, you’ll enjoy a possum-free home and contribute to maintaining the delicate balance of your local ecosystem.