Possums are a protected part of Australia’s wildlife and an important part of the ecosystem. However, their presence in your home or garden can lead to disrupted sleep, damaged vegetation, and general frustration. While humane possum removal is sometimes necessary, there are several easy DIY deterrents you can try to keep these nocturnal visitors at bay.
In this article, we’ll explore five effective DIY solutions to deter possums and safeguard your property without harming them.
1. Use Natural Smell Deterrents
Possums have a strong sense of smell, making certain scents an effective way to deter them.Create your own natural deterrents using:
- Garlic Spray:mix crushed garlic with water and apply it to plants
- Camphor or Eucalyptus Oil: Dilute a few drops of these essential oils in water and spray them near areas frequented by possums.
These strong scents are unpleasant to possums and can encourage them to move elsewhere. Reapply after rain or every few days for maximum effectiveness.
2. Install Motion-Activated Deterrents
Possums are nocturnal creatures and prefer quiet, undisturbed environments. Motion-activated devices can startle and discourage them:
- Lights: Install motion-activated floodlights near entry points or in your garden.
- Sprinklers: Motion-activated sprinklers can deliver a harmless but surprising spray of water when possums approach.
These devices work as excellent deterrents while keeping your home and garden possum-friendly.
3. Secure Your Home and Garden
Preventing access is one of the best ways to keep possums out:
- Seal Entry Points: Inspect your roof, walls, and attic for gaps or holes. Use metal mesh or wood to seal these spaces, ensuring no possums are trapped inside.
- Trim Overhanging Branches: Cut back tree branches near your roofline to prevent possums from climbing onto your roof.
- Use Netting: Cover fruit trees and vegetable gardens with wildlife-safe netting to protect your plants.
These measures make it harder for possums to invade your space, reducing the need for possum removal.
4. Create an Unappealing Environment
Possums are less likely to stick around if your property is not inviting:
- Secure Rubbish Bins: Use bins with tight-fitting lids to keep food scraps out of reach.
- Remove Fallen Fruit: Regularly clean up fallen fruit and vegetables in your garden.
- Avoid Feeding Wildlife: While it may be tempting to feed possums, it encourages dependency and increases the likelihood of them returning.
By reducing food sources and shelter, you can naturally deter possums from your home.
5. Provide Alternative Habitats
If possums are nesting in your roof or causing issues, giving them an alternative home can redirect their activity:
- Install Possum Boxes: Place a possum box in a tree away from your house. This provides a safe, appealing space for possums to relocate.
Providing a habitat allows you to coexist with possums while protecting your property.
When to Consider Professional Possum Removal
If DIY deterrents fail to resolve the problem, professional possum removal may be necessary. Licensed professionals can safely and humanely capture and release possums in compliance with Australian wildlife laws.
Contact Us
Need help with possum problems? We’re here to assist! Our licensed affordable possum removal service in Perth offers humane and effective solutions to safeguard your home and garden. Contact us today for a consultation and reclaim your space while respecting Australia’s native wildlife.
Conclusion
Keeping possums out of your home and garden doesn’t have to be difficult or harmful. With these five easy DIY deterrents, you can manage possum activity humanely and effectively. From natural smell deterrents to providing alternative habitats, these solutions are cost-effective and environmentally friendly.
If the problem persists, don’t hesitate to contact professional possum removal services for a safe and legal resolution. Protect your property while maintaining harmony with Australia’s unique wildlife.
Published on: January 23, 2025