Living with Possums in Suburbia: A Guide to Coexistence

With the encroachment of urban sprawl, the natural habitats of many native species, including possums, are being compromised. Both the common brush tail and ringtail possums have adapted to living in suburban areas due to the loss of their natural environments. The cutting down of trees, construction of roads, and overall expansion of urban areas have pushed these nocturnal marsupials to seek refuge in our backyards and homes. Here's how we can coexist with our furry neighbors while ensuring their safety and well-being.

Understanding Possum Habitats

Possums are arboreal creatures, meaning they primarily live in trees. However, with the reduction of suitable nesting sites, they often move into roof spaces and other sheltered areas in suburban homes. It's important to recognise that these animals are simply trying to survive in an ever-changing environment.

How to Live with Possums

1. Do Not Feed Possums:

   • Feeding possums can lead to dependency on human food, which may not meet their nutritional needs and can cause health issues. Instead, allow them to find their natural food sources.

2. Keep Cats and Dogs Inside at Night:

   • Possums are most active at night, and domestic pets can pose a significant threat to their safety. Keeping pets indoors will help protect local wildlife and reduce the risk of injury to both possums and pets.

3. Provide Shelter with Possum Boxes:

   • Installing possum boxes in high trees can offer a safe and secure place for possums to nest. These boxes mimic natural tree hollows and encourage possums to stay out of roof spaces.

Dealing with Possums in Roof Spaces

If a possum has taken up residence in your roof, here are some steps to encourage them to relocate:

1. Locate Entry Points:

   • Identify where the possum is entering your roof. This is typically through gaps or holes in the eaves, vents, or roof tiles.

2. Install a One-Way Door:

   • Install a one-way door at the entry point to allow the possum to leave but not re-enter. Once the possum has vacated, seal the entry point securely.

3. Provide an Alternative Home:

   • Place a possum box in a nearby tree to offer an alternative nesting site. Ensure it is positioned high enough to keep the possum safe from predators.

4. Remove Attractive Elements:

   • Trim overhanging branches and remove any potential food sources near the roof to discourage possums from returning.

Important Considerations

The ringtail possum is critically endangered. Recently, 40 ringtail possums were found deceased in a deliberately lit fire. It is not only illegal to relocate possums without proper authorization but also extremely cruel, as they are territorial animals. Relocating possums can cause significant stress and disrupt their social structures. Furthermore, if one possum family is moved, another is likely to move in.

If you believe you have a valid reason for relocating possums, please contact the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA). They can arrange for a wildlife carer to responsibly and ethically relocate the possums if necessary.

Creating a Wildlife-Friendly Garden

If you love seeing possums and want to support their presence in your garden, consider creating a wildlife-friendly environment:

1. Native Plants:

   • Plant native trees and shrubs that provide food and shelter for possums. Examples include eucalyptus, banksia, and acacia species.

2. Water Source:

   • Provide a water source, such as a birdbath or small pond, elevated off the ground to keep it safe from predators.

3. Possum Boxes:

   • Install possum boxes in high trees to offer safe nesting sites. Ensure these boxes are placed at least 4 meters above the ground.

4. Avoid Ground Hazards:

   • Keep items like water dishes and feeders off the ground as possums are arboreal creatures. This helps protect them from ground predators and reduces the risk of accidents.

5. No Feeding:

   • Refrain from feeding possums directly. Instead, let them forage for natural food sources in your garden.

By understanding the reasons behind possums' presence in suburban areas and taking steps to coexist peacefully, we can ensure the well-being of both these unique marsupials and our own homes. Embracing measures such as not feeding them, keeping pets indoors at night, and providing possum boxes will help maintain a balanced ecosystem where possums and humans can live harmoniously.

Here are some helpful resources on how to make a possum box or drey:

Possum Box:

1. Better Homes and Gardens: How to build your own possum box

2. Wildlife Rescue South Coast: Build a possum box

3. NSW Environment and Heritage: Guide to Making a Possum House

Possum Drey:

1. Wild For Life: Homes for Ringtail possums

2. YouTube Video: DIY possum drey in your backyard

3. YouTube Video: How to build a ringtail possum drey

These resources should provide you with detailed instructions and materials needed to create a safe and comfortable home for possums. If you need any further assistance, feel free to let me know!

At Amaris Wildlife Rehabilitation Sanctuary, we have taken in possums that have faced heartbreaking and traumatic circumstances. These include possums that have been poisoned, thrown into rubbish bins, attacked by cats, trapped by pest control companies, and in one tragic case, a possum that was skinned alive. Not all of these rescues had happy endings, but some of these resilient creatures went on to experience successful releases back into the wild. Our commitment to their care and recovery remains unwavering, ensuring that every possum receives the compassion and support they need.

“Inspiring hope and healing for Australia’s wildlife, one rescue at a time.”