Should you’re listening to scratching, thumping or scampering above your ceiling at evening, there’s an excellent likelihood you could have a possum in your roof. As cities and suburbs increase, possums—particularly the Frequent Brushtail Possum—are more and more in search of shelter in roof areas.
Whereas their visits may appear noisy or inconvenient, it’s essential to do not forget that these curious marsupials are protected native animals. There are secure, humane and authorized methods to assist a possum transfer on with out inflicting it hurt.
Why Are Possums in My Roof?
Possums are resourceful and extremely adaptable. When timber are cleared or nesting hollows are misplaced, they usually search for the following neatest thing—your roof cavity. Roofs provide a heat, dry and secure area to shelter through the day.
Sadly, sharing your own home with a possum can result in issues like:
Possum in Roof Assist: What You Can Do
Should you suspect a possum has taken up residence in your roof, right here’s the best way to assist:
1. Observe Earlier than Appearing
Watch and hearken to work out the possum’s entry level and exit routine. Possums are often lively at evening, leaving the roof at nightfall and returning at daybreak.
2. Create a Path Out
When you’re positive the possum is out, block the entry level securely utilizing timber or steel sheeting. Make sure no animals are nonetheless inside earlier than sealing. You may also set up a one-way door to allow them to out safely whereas stopping re-entry.
3. Provide a New House Close by
Relatively than displacing the possum solely, provide it another shelter by putting in a possum field in a close-by tree. Place the field a minimum of 4 metres excessive and out of attain of cats or canine. This gives a secure choice for the possum to maneuver into.
4. Stop Future Visits
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Trim overhanging branches near your roof
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Keep away from leaving pet meals or uncovered garbage outdoors
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Examine your roof recurrently for brand new gaps or entry factors
Possums Are Protected
Possums are protected underneath the Nationwide Parks and Wildlife Act 1974. It’s unlawful to hurt, lure or relocate them and not using a licence. Relocating a possum outdoors its territory often ends in damage, stress or demise. Should you want help, contact a licensed wildlife carer.
Injured, Orphaned or Distressed Possum?
Should you discover a possum that’s injured, moist, shivering or separated from its mom, please name WIRES instantly on 1300 094 737, or report the rescue on-line. Our skilled volunteers are prepared to assist.
A Little Brushtail With a Large Story
One younger brushtail possum rescued by WIRES was discovered after being chased from a roof cavity. Disoriented and alone, he had tried to shelter in one other roof area, however was rejected by the dominant male already dwelling there.
Fortunately, a form resident referred to as WIRES. The younger possum was taken into care, given shelter, and monitored carefully. After weeks of restoration, he was efficiently launched into secure bushland, with a close-by possum field already ready for him.
