Has a possum settled in on your roof?
Possums In Your Roof
What To Do
If you suspect you have possums in your roof, the first thing you need to do is confirm if it is possums or another culprit before taking any action. The best way to do this is to look at the droppings, or scats, left behind.
If possible, get into your roof space and collect some scats. Possum scats are 1-2cm long and 0.5-1cm wide. Mice and rat scats are generally skinnier with pointy ends.
The lingering smell of rats and mice is quite distinctive from possums and rodents often chew electrical wires while possums (usually) do not.
Keeping Possums Out
Once you have confirmed that you have possums in your roof, identify all access points into the roof space so they can be blocked off. Once you’ve located an entry point (you may see scratch marks, urine stains and/or fur), wait until after dusk or dark, and observe the possum(s) leave your roof space.
Then block the access point(s) as best as possible by installing a permanent, sturdy barrier such as sheet metal or wooden sheets nailed down. Possums are stronger than they look so avoid using bricks or structures that can be moved. To prevent possums climbing onto the roof you may need to trim back overhanging branches close to your house. And consider installing a possum box in a mature tree to encourage your possums to take up a new home.
Relocating possums
Who To Contact
You can also call a licensed pest management contractor if you require help.
General enquiries about possums in your roof can be directed to the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) office Busselton 9752 5555, Bunbury 9725 4300, or Collie 9735 1988.
More information and a fact sheet from DBCA can be found here, and there are more tips for dealing with possums in your roof in this article from Rochelle Steven, Threatened Species Recovery Hub.
Remember, you cannot catch and relocate possums without a license.
