How To
Avoid Pests
Noises in the Roof?
The Possum Removal Guide
The heavy thumping in your ceiling isn’t a ghost—it’s likely a Brushtail Possum. Learn how to evict them legally without harming the animal or your property.
1. Is it a Possum or a Rat?
Before attempting removal, accurate identification is crucial. The sounds are distinct:
- Possums: Heavy, slow thumping steps (like a human walking). Activity starts shortly after dusk (leaving) and before dawn (returning). Coughing or screeching noises.
- Rats: Fast, light scratching or scuttling sounds. Constant gnawing noises. Activity throughout the night.
Legal Warning
In Australia and many other regions, native possums are protected wildlife. It is illegal to kill them, harm them, or relocate them far from their territory (usually max 50m). The only legal solution is to “proof” your home so they cannot re-enter.
Need a Licensed Catcher in Mulgrave?
Dealing with protected wildlife requires specific licenses. If you are unsure about sealing entry points yourself, we recommend contacting local experts who can install one-way exits and repair your roof.
Contact Professional Possum Removal Mulgrave2. The Eviction Strategy
You cannot simply catch a possum and drive it to the woods. It will likely die due to territorial disputes. Instead, you must force it to move out on its own.
The One-Way Door
Install a specialized cage door over the main entry point. The possum can push through to leave for food at night but cannot push back in. This is the gold standard for humane eviction.
Exclusion (Proofing)
Once the possum is out, every other hole must be sealed. Possums are strong; chicken wire isn’t enough. Use heavy-gauge galvanized mesh or timber to block eaves and loose tiles.
3. Where Will They Go?
Since possums are territorial, if you evict them from your roof without an alternative, they will try desperately to get back in, often causing more damage.
The Solution: Possum Boxes. Installing a nesting box in a nearby tree provides a warm, safe alternative. This encourages the possum to adopt the box as its new den rather than gnawing through your fascia boards.
Prevention Checklist
- Trim Trees: Keep branches at least 1.5m away from the roof line to break the “bridge” to your home.
- Secure Bins: Possums are scavengers. Lock lids to reduce food attraction.
- Inspect Annually: Check your roof before winter when possums are looking for nesting sites.
Reclaim Your Sleep
Sharing your property with nature is part of life, but sharing your roof cavity isn’t. Act quickly to prevent wiring damage and sleepless nights.
Recommended Specialist
Book Professional Possum Removal in Mulgrave