Lexi Webster
Possums are nocturnal marsupials that can wreak havoc in Australian homes by making noises in roofs and causing damage to trees, vegetable patches, and gardens. They can be removed humanely through the use of possum traps, which are designed to safely capture possums without injuring them. Before setting up a possum trap, it is important to review local regulations and ensure that you have the required licenses. Possum traps are typically made of tough, durable materials and feature a trigger mechanism that closes a door once the possum enters to eat the lure. To set up a possum trap effectively, select an appropriate location near possum activity, use fresh bait that will attract possums specifically, and adjust the sensitivity of the trigger mechanism to prevent false triggers. It is also crucial to check the trap daily to ensure the well-being of the trapped possum and cover the cage with a blanket to keep it calm during relocation.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Trap Type | One-way doors, cage traps |
| Trap Material | Metal, galvanised welded wire mesh |
| Trap Sensitivity | Adjust the slope on the L-shaped hook with pliers |
| Trap Bait | Apples, aniseed oil on bread, marshmallows, sweet bread, canned pet food, bananas, rodents, insects, worms |
| Trap Setup | Camouflage with leaves and twigs, place on an even surface, check daily |
| Trap Release | Wear gloves, cover with a blanket, relocate at least 25-150 miles away |
| Trapping Considerations | Review local regulations, possums are a protected species in Australia |
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What You'll Learn
- Lure the possum with fresh bait, like apples or sweet bread
- Ensure the trap is sensitive enough to catch the possum
- Check the trap daily and calm the possum with a blanket
- Possum-proof your building before trapping to prevent their return
- Comply with local regulations and hire a professional removal company
Lure the possum with fresh bait, like apples or sweet bread
Possums are native to Papua New Guinea and Australia, where they can be a problem due to the noise they make on roofs and the damage they cause to trees and vegetable patches. They are also known to spread possum faeces and raid garbage cans. Possums are protected in Australia, and it is illegal to harm or relocate them more than 25-150m away from their original location.
To trap a possum, you must first select an appropriate lure. Possums are not picky eaters, but they can be lured by fresh bait such as apples or sweet bread. They are attracted to sweet foods, so marshmallows, jam, and peanut butter can also be used as bait. Possums also like fish and pet food, especially if it is smelly.
When using apples or sweet bread as bait, it is important to use fresh ingredients and replace them daily so they do not spoil or lose their scent. A small amount of food can be used to create a trail leading to the trap. The food should be positioned so that the possum has to step on the trigger plate to get to it, ensuring that the trap door closes behind them.
It is important to check the trap frequently, at least once a day, as leaving a possum in the trap for too long can cause it to become anxious and aggressive. Once a possum is caught, cover the cage with a blanket to calm it, then relocate it at least 25 miles away from your home and release it.
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Ensure the trap is sensitive enough to catch the possum
When setting up your possum trap, it is important to ensure that the trap is sensitive enough to catch the possum. Possums are known to be quite large, growing to the size of a large cat, so it is important to buy a large steel cage trap, also known as a raccoon trap. These traps typically range from 30 to 40 inches in length and 12 inches in height.
Once you have purchased the appropriate trap, it is crucial to place it in an area where possum activity has been noticed, such as near their den or garbage cans. Before setting the trap, always check with your local regulations and game commission to ensure that trapping is allowed in your area and that you have the necessary permits.
To make the trap sensitive enough, you should choose the right bait that will attract possums specifically. Possums are omnivores, so a variety of baits can be used, such as apples, aniseed oil on bread, marshmallows, sweet bread, fish, or even canned pet food. The smellier the bait, the better. Create a trail of bait leading to the trap, ensuring that the possum has to step on the trigger plate to reach the food. Test the trigger mechanism before placing the bait to ensure it is working properly.
In addition to the bait, the placement of the trap is crucial. Place the trap on a flat surface to prevent wobbling or tipping over when the possum is caught. Camouflage the trap with surrounding leaves or twigs to make it less noticeable to the possum.
By following these steps and choosing the right bait, setting the trap in the right location, and ensuring the sensitivity of the trigger mechanism, you can effectively increase your chances of catching a possum.
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Check the trap daily and calm the possum with a blanket
Checking your possum trap daily is important for the wellbeing of the trapped animal. Possums are a protected species in Australia, and it is illegal to harm or injure them. Therefore, it is crucial to minimise the stress experienced by a trapped possum.
One way to calm a trapped possum is to use a blanket. Before lifting the cage, place a blanket over it. This will have a twofold effect. Firstly, it will calm the possum, and secondly, it will prevent the possum from reaching out and grabbing you.
You should also wear heavy-duty gloves when handling the cage to protect yourself from any potential bites or scratches. It is also recommended to place the trap on a newspaper or in a cardboard box before transporting it.
To further minimise stress, you can relocate the possum to a calm environment. Use a trap cover to ensure the possum is relocated without stress. You should also ensure that the possum is released at least 25 miles away from your home, as relocating them too far from their original location can be detrimental to their chances of survival.
It is important to note that trapping and relocating wildlife can have unintended consequences, such as creating orphans and disrupting the natural ecosystem. Therefore, it is advisable to consult with a professional possum removal company to ensure compliance with local regulations and to determine the most humane solution for your specific situation.
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Possum-proof your building before trapping to prevent their return
Possums can be a big problem in Australia, causing damage to properties and vegetable patches and making a lot of noise. If you have a possum problem, it is important to possum-proof your building before trapping to prevent their return. Here are some ways to do this:
Firstly, identify the possum's entry points into your building and seal them off. Possums are known to live in roofs, attics, and garages, so check for any openings they may be using to gain access. If the possum is living in your roof, seal the area where they are gaining entry. You can also use a possum repeller to deter them from entering.
Next, consider installing a chicken-wire fence around your property. This type of fence should be about four feet high, with the top 12 to 18 inches bent outward away from the garden. You can also attach an electrically charged wire along the top of the fence to make it even more effective.
Another way to possum-proof your building is to apply a liquid or granular repellent that targets their sense of smell and taste. This will make your property less appealing to possums and help keep them away.
Keep your garbage secure in bins and close off access to potential shelter, such as underneath a porch or deck. Possums are attracted to garbage and will seek out shelter on your property, so removing these attractions will help deter them.
Finally, trim any trees around your house that possums may be using to access your roof or attic. By removing their easy access points, you can make it more difficult for them to enter your building.
Remember, it is important to review local regulations regarding trapping wildlife and consider hiring a professional possum removal company to ensure compliance with the law and humane treatment of possums.
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Comply with local regulations and hire a professional removal company
In Australia, possums are protected under the Wildlife Act 1975 and the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Regulation 2016. The use of traps is regulated under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Regulation 2016, which outlines specific guidelines for trap construction and usage to ensure the humane treatment of these native animals. For example, traps must not have sharp edges, hooks, or protruding parts that may injure the animal.
To comply with local regulations, it is essential to understand the laws and requirements specific to your state or territory. Each state government body in Australia, such as NSW, VIC, SA, QLD, WA, TAS, ACT, and the NT, has its own regulations regarding possum removal. It is illegal to trap a possum without an appropriate licence, and you may be fined up to $50,000 for relocating a possum beyond the permitted distance.
To ensure compliance and the ethical treatment of wildlife, consider hiring a professional possum removal company. Reputable companies, such as Possum Piper and Possum Busters, have extensive experience and knowledge of building structures and possum behaviour. They provide tailored solutions, ensuring swift, cost-effective, and eco-friendly removal of possums while prioritizing the humane treatment of these animals.
These professional removal companies have certified wildlife handlers and catchers who are trained in the humane handling of Australian wildlife. They are licensed by National Parks & Wildlife and are fully insured, offering warranties for their services. By engaging their services, you can be confident that the job will be done correctly and safely for both you and the possum.
When hiring a professional possum removal company, it is important to verify their credentials and ensure they have the necessary licences and permits. Ask about their methods and ensure they comply with local regulations. By working with a reputable company, you can benefit from their expertise and avoid any legal repercussions or harm to the possums.
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Frequently asked questions
It is important to review local regulations regarding trapping wildlife in Australia. Possums are a protected species, and it is illegal to harm or injure them or to relocate them more than 25-150m away from their original location.
Possum removal specialists typically prefer using one-way doors to ensure possums are evicted from a building. Possum traps should be safe for both humans and possums, with no sharp edges that can harm the animal. Camouflaging the cage with surrounding leaves and twigs can also help keep the possum calm.
Almost any type of bait will work as possums are omnivores. However, to avoid attracting other animals, try apples, aniseed oil on bread, marshmallows, or other sweet bread.
Always stand behind the trap cage when releasing the possum. If it turns to look at you, make loud predator noises to scare it away. Cover the cage with a blanket to calm the possum and prevent it from reaching out. Wear thick gloves or use a long pole to prevent scratches when handling the cage.
