Possums are fascinating creatures, often found in urban and suburban areas, including the lively city of Melbourne. While many people associate possums with their nocturnal habits, these marsupials are a common sight in many homes and gardens, especially in places like Melbourne.
These curious critters can sometimes create a bit of a nuisance, especially when they make themselves at home on your roof or attic. Knowing the different types of possums you might encounter in Melbourne can help you identify them and take the right steps if you need to handle an infestation.
Let’s take a closer look at the most common types of possums found in Melbourne and how you can deal with them.
1. Common Brushtail Possum
The Common Brushtail Possum is one of the most frequently spotted species in Melbourne. Recognizable by its bushy tail and a coat ranging from grey to brown, these possums are highly adaptable and often reside in urban environments. They tend to seek shelter in roof spaces, attics, and other concealed areas of homes.
Characteristics
With their greyish-brown fur and white or lighter undersides, these possums are easy to identify. Their long, bushy tails not only add to their unique look but also provide excellent balance as they climb trees or navigate tight spaces.
Habitat and Behaviour
Being nocturnal creatures, Brushtail Possums are most active at night, foraging for fruits, flowers, and insects. Their preference for sheltered, warm spaces makes rooftops and attics ideal spots for them to hide and rest.
Dealing with Them
If you discover a Possum has found its way into your home, it’s important to call professional possum control services. These animals are protected by law, so they must be removed in a safe and humane manner.
2. Sugar Glider
The Sugar Glider is another type of possum that might be found in Melbourne. Though not as common as the Brushtail Possum, these small, gliding possums are becoming increasingly visible in the urban environment. They are particularly attracted to trees and wooded areas but are known to venture into residential areas in search of food.
Characteristics
Sugar Gliders are much smaller than Brushtail Possums, with a size of around 15–20 cm in length, not including their tail. Their fur is soft and gray with a white belly, and they have a membrane of skin between their forelimbs and hindlimbs that enables them to glide between trees.
Habitat and Behaviour
These possums are nocturnal, just like other species, and enjoy living in tree hollows or areas where they can glide from one place to another. While they are less likely to invade your roof, if you have trees close to your home, they may become curious and enter your attic or ceiling.
Dealing with Them
If a Sugar Glider has made itself at home on your roof, it’s essential to have it removed safely. Since they are smaller, they may not cause as much damage as a Brushtail Possum, but it’s still important to address the issue to prevent further intrusion.
3. Ringtail Possum
The Ringtail Possum, a captivating species found in Melbourne, is known for its long, prehensile tail. This tail serves as a versatile tool, helping the possum skillfully grip tree branches and navigate its environment with ease.
Characteristics
The Ringtail Possum is smaller than the Brushtail Possum and has a distinctive tail that is almost as long as its body. Its fur is generally light grey or brown with a white or cream-coloured underside. They also have large, round eyes that help them see in the dark.
Habitat and Behaviour
Ringtail Possums are highly arboreal, meaning they prefer to live in trees. They are also nocturnal, foraging at night for leaves, fruits, and flowers. Unlike Brushtail Possums, they are less likely to invade your home, but they may seek shelter in roofs or attics if there’s easy access.
Dealing with Them
Though not as aggressive as other possum species, Ringtail Possums can still cause damage to your home if they take up residence. If you notice one of these possums in your attic or roof, it’s best to call a professional possum removal to relocate them safely.
4. Pygmy Possum
The Pygmy Possum is a rare but fascinating species found in Melbourne. These tiny possums are much smaller than the others and are usually found in bushland or wooded areas. However, they may occasionally enter urban areas, although this is relatively uncommon.
Characteristics
The Common Ringtail Possum and Brushtail Possum are two common possum species in Australia. These small, nocturnal marsupials measure around 7–10 cm in body length and are easily identifiable by their soft, grayish-brown fur and white belly.
Habitat and Behavior
Possums primarily feed on insects, nectar, and fruits. They often make their homes in tree hollows, dense vegetation, or even roofs of houses. In urban areas, possums may venture into gardens or residential spaces searching for food or shelter.
Dealing with Them
Although possums are a protected species in Australia, encounters in homes are not unusual. If you find a possum in your garden or house, handle the situation with care to avoid harming the animal or yourself. Contact a licensed wildlife professional for safe and humane relocation in accordance with local regulations.
Why You Should Address Possum Issues Early
While possums are fascinating creatures, they can pose several challenges when they invade your home. If left unchecked, they can damage insulation, wiring, and roofing materials. They also create noise disturbances, especially at night, which can disrupt your sleep.
Possum removal can be tricky, as these animals are protected by law in Melbourne. You cannot harm or kill a possum without permission from the appropriate authorities.
This is why it’s crucial to enlist the help of professional possum control services. These experts can safely remove the possum, relocate it, and even provide advice on how to prevent further invasions.
How to Prevent Possums from Entering Your Home
The best way to avoid dealing with possum problems in the future is to take steps to prevent them from entering your home in the first place. Here are some tips:
- Seal Gaps and Holes: Check your roof, attic, and walls for any gaps or holes where possums can enter. Seal these openings with durable materials.
- Trim Trees and Branches: Possums are skilled climbers. Trim any branches that extend toward your roof or other access points.
- Install Possum-Proof Barriers: Consider installing possum-proof barriers around your home to discourage them from seeking shelter.
Understanding the common types of possums found in Melbourne and how to deal with them is essential for homeowners who may encounter these creatures.
Each possum species has its own unique characteristics and behaviors, making them fascinating creatures to observe and understand.
By taking proactive steps to prevent possums from entering your home and enlisting professional possum control services when needed, you can ensure that your home remains safe and secure.
Remember, possums are protected by law, so always handle the situation with care and seek professional assistance for humane removal.
If you’re dealing with a possum infestation, don’t wait for the problem to escalate—contact our possum removal experts in Melbourne like Specific Pest Control today for fast, safe, and effective removal services.