Understanding Why Possums Are Becoming a Common Problem in Urban Areas

Possums, a quintessential part of Australian wildlife, are becoming increasingly problematic in the urban environment. Their adaptability to urban environments and the loss of their natural habitat have led to rising conflicts with humans.

This article explains why possums are becoming a common problem in urban areas, their biology, behaviour, and solutions to manage their impact.

Let’s Get Straight to the Point

Due to habitat loss and their adaptability to urban environments, possums are increasingly challenging to manage in urban areas. 

Common species like the Brushtail and Ringtail Possum thrive in urban settings, where food and shelter are abundant. Possums emerge at dusk, making it a key time to observe their activity.

However, they face risks such as roadkill, electrocution, and predation. Solutions include installing nest boxes, using possum-proof fencing, and sealing homes to prevent entry.

Trapping and relocating possums is ineffective and often harmful. As protected wildlife, managing possums humanely is essential for coexistence while mitigating their impact on gardens, roofs, and urban landscapes.

Possum Biology

1. An Overview of Possum Species

Australia is home to over 23 possum species, the most widespread of which are the Common Brushtail Possum (Trichosurus vulpecula) and the Common Ringtail Possum (Pseudocheirus peregrinus). 

Common brushtail possums and common ringtail possums have adapted to urban settings, often seen navigating trees, fences, and rooftops in cities.

Possums are easily recognisable by their grey fur, bushy black tail, and unique climbing adaptations. Their sharp claws enable them to scale trees, fences, and rooftops easily, making them highly adept at surviving in natural and urban environments.

Other possum species, such as the Western Pygmy Possum, are less visible in cities but play a vital role in maintaining the balance of native habitats by feeding on nectar and pollinating native plants.

Despite their diversity, many possum species face challenges due to habitat loss and increased human activity.

2. Reproductive Habits

The reproductive cycle of possums contributes significantly to the growth of possum populations in urban areas. Female Brushtail Possums become reproductively active at around one year of age. 

After a short gestation of just 18 days, they give birth to a single young possum, which spends the next four to five months developing in the mother’s pouch. 

This rapid development ensures the survival of baby possums in harsh environments, but it also contributes to the rising numbers of urban possums.

3. Adaptations for Survival

Possums are highly versatile animals. In addition to their climbing abilities, they are nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night. 

Their diet includes eucalyptus leaves, native plants, and occasionally bird’s eggs. This adaptability allows them to thrive in fragmented landscapes dominated by exotic trees and human activity.

Habitat and Behaviour

1. Tree Hollows and Nesting Habits

In their natural habitat, possums rely on tree hollows for shelter. However, extensive land clearing and urbanisation have drastically reduced the availability of these den sites. 

As a result, possums have been forced to seek alternative shelter in roofing iron, ceiling space, and even wall cavities. This behaviour often conflicts with humans, as possums living in these spaces can cause significant property damage and disturbances.

2. Diet and Foraging

Possums are opportunistic feeders. They consume various foods, including native plants, eucalyptus leaves, and garden ornamental plants. Ringtail possums have adapted well to urban environments, often feeding on various garden plants and fruits.

Some species, such as the Common Brushtail Possum, are known to eat flowers, fruits, and even small vertebrates like baby birds. This diet diversity enables them to adapt to changing environments but often results in conflicts with gardeners and homeowners.

Possums are also drawn to easily accessible food sources, such as pet food left outdoors. These readily available resources further encourage possums to frequent urban areas, exacerbating their presence in human habitats.

3. Territorial Behaviour

Possums are territorial creatures. A single individual or family group will fiercely defend its territory, including gardens, rooftops, and other human structures. 

Possums use scent glands to mark their territory and deter competitors. When they emerge from their shelter at night, they actively patrol their domain to prevent intrusions from other possums.

Possums in Urban Environments

1. Why Urban Areas Attract Possums

The expansion of urban environments has led to significant loss of native habitats, forcing possums to adapt to new surroundings. Common ringtail possums, in particular, have adapted to urban settings.

Urban settings often provide abundant food and shelter. Features like fruit trees, ornamental plants, and outdoor pet food make suburban gardens attractive to urban possums.

However, life in urban areas is not without risks. Possums are frequently injured or killed by cars, attacks from pets, and electrocution from power lines.

The lack of safe den sites further complicates their survival, pushing them to seek refuge in homes and other human structures.

2. Challenges Faced by Urban Possums

Living in cities exposes possums to numerous dangers. Roadkill is a common cause of mortality, as is predation by domestic animals such as cats and dogs. 

To reduce these risks, homeowners can keep cats indoors at night. Electrocution on power lines remains a significant hazard, highlighting the importance of possum-proofing transmission cables.

Diseases are another concern for urban possums. Overcrowded conditions and competition for resources can lead to stress and the spread of illnesses, further threatening their survival in urban settings.

Solutions for Urban Possums

1. Prevention

Preventing possum-related issues starts with making your property less inviting to these animals. Here are some effective strategies:

• Keep cats and dogs indoors at night to protect pets and urban possums.
• Replace exotic trees with native plants to restore natural balance and limit food availability.
• Install nest boxes as an alternative to roof space for shelter, providing possums with a safe, natural home.
• Protect gardens and fruit trees using heavily galvanised chicken wire or fencing.

These measures allow homeowners to coexist with possums while minimising property damage.

2. Trapping and Relocation

Trapping and relocating possums is not a recommended solution. Research, such as a study conducted by Deakin University, has shown that relocated possums have a low survival rate. 

Urban possums develop specific skills and behaviours tailored to their environment, which may not translate well to rural or bush settings.

Instead, humane management practices, such as providing nest boxes and ensuring the sealing of roofing iron, are more effective in addressing possum-related challenges.

3. Possum-Proofing Your Home

To prevent possums from living in your home, consider the following steps:

• Seal Entry Points: To block gaps in roofs and walls, use floppy fences, chicken wire, or folded sheet metal.
• Repair Damages: Fix loose tiles, holes in roofing iron, and any other vulnerabilities.
• Provide Alternatives: Install nest boxes in your garden to give possums a safe place to live without invading your home.
• Manage Food Sources: Remove fallen fruit from fruit trees and avoid leaving pet food outdoors overnight.

These measures protect your property and ensure the welfare of these protected species.

Unique Possum Behaviour and Management

1. Understanding Possum Behaviour

Understanding possum behaviour is important for effectively managing them. Possums living in urban settings have adapted to take advantage of human resources. 

For example, they often nest in roof spaces or wall cavities when tree hollows are unavailable. Recognising these patterns can help homeowners implement appropriate deterrents.

2. The Importance of Coexistence

In Australia, possums are protected under the Wildlife Act, which makes harming or killing them illegal. 

Coexisting with these animals requires understanding their ecological importance and a commitment to humane management practices. 

Consulting licensed wildlife controllers can provide professional guidance on dealing with persistent issues.

Common Possum Misconceptions

1. Not All Possums are the Same

While many Australians are familiar with the Common Brushtail and Common Ringtail Possum, it is essential to recognise the diversity among possum species. 

For instance, the Western Pygmy Possum and greater glider have distinct habits and habitats. Tailoring management strategies to the specific species in your area can improve outcomes for both humans and wildlife.

2. Possum Damage is Preventable

Many homeowners believe that possum damage is inevitable, but this is not the case. 

Simple measures, such as using floppy fences and securing roofing iron, can significantly reduce the likelihood of possum attempts to invade your property. 

Education and proactive planning are key to preventing conflicts with these adaptable animals.

Possums and Suburban Living

1. The Impact of Suburban Expansion

Suburban growth has drastically altered the landscape, leaving possums with fewer options for shelter and food. This has forced them to adapt to suburban living, where they often conflict with humans. 

The loss of native habitats and increased competition for resources underscore the need for sustainable urban planning.

2. Creating Possum-Proof Gardens

To discourage possums from damaging gardens, consider the following:

• Planting native plants to support ecological balance.
• Protecting vulnerable plants with heavily galvanised chicken wire.
• Clearing fallen fruit from fruit trees and storing pet food securely.

By taking these steps, homeowners can reduce the impact of possums on their gardens while supporting local wildlife.

Conclusion

Possums are protected wildlife in Australia, playing a vital role in the ecosystem. While they are becoming a common problem in urban areas, understanding their biology and behaviour can help mitigate conflicts. 

Homeowners can coexist with these adaptable marsupials by implementing preventative measures like nest boxes, floppy fences, and possum-proofing transmission cables.

Adopting humane approaches to managing possums, fostering awareness of their ecological importance, and adhering to legal protections ensure a harmonious relationship between humans and urban wildlife.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are possums a problem in urban areas?

Possums become problematic in urban areas due to habitat loss and their attraction to food and shelter in cities. They can damage roofs, gardens, and power lines while also being at risk from predators and traffic.

What can I do to keep possums out of my home?

Seal entry points in roofs and walls with sheet metal or chicken wire. Install nest boxes in your garden to provide alternative shelter and prevent pet food from being left outdoors overnight.

Is it legal to trap and relocate possums?

In Australia, possums are protected under the Wildlife Act, and trapping or relocating them without a license is illegal. Relocation is often ineffective as possums are territorial and struggle to survive in unfamiliar areas.

How can I prevent possums from damaging my garden?

Use possum-proof fencing or heavily galvanised chicken wire around vulnerable plants. Plant native species less attractive to possums and promptly remove fallen fruit to limit their food sources.

What should I do if I find a possum in my roof?

Identify and seal their entry points after ensuring the possum has left the area. Installing a nest box nearby can encourage them to move into a more suitable location. Consult licensed wildlife controllers if needed.