Australia is home to a variety of possums and gliders, including the common brushtail possum, ringtail possum, and sugar glider. These nocturnal marsupials are often found in urban and suburban areas, adapting to tree loss by nesting in roofs, sheds, or other structures.
🧐 When People Encounter Possums and Gliders
Common situations include:
- Possums or gliders found on the ground during the day
- Injured animals due to vehicle strikes or pet attacks
- Orphaned joeys found near a deceased mother
🛑 What To Do
- Do not attempt to handle adult possums or gliders — they may bite or scratch when frightened
- If a joey is found, place it in a warm, ventilated container lined with soft fabric (like a t-shirt or tea towel)
- Keep the container in a quiet, dark space
- Call Wildlife Rescue Australia (1300 596 457) or your local wildlife group for help
⚠️ Important to Know
Possums and gliders are nocturnal. If you see one active during the day, it may be injured or unwell. Joeys found alone always need help.
🌱 Why This Matters
These animals play an important role in pollination and seed dispersal, supporting the health of native forests and gardens. Every rescue helps preserve biodiversity.
🔍 References:
- WIRES. (2024). Caring for Possums. Retrieved from: https://www.wires.org.au/wildlife-information/caring-for-possums
- Hunter Wildlife Rescue. (2024). Possums & Gliders. Retrieved from: https://www.hunterwildlife.org.au/rescue-advice/possums-gliders/
🏡 Possums in Roofs – How to Handle It Humanely
(Adapted from a NSW Office of Environment & Heritage article)
Due to habitat loss, possums may take shelter in roofs, chimneys, sheds, or garages. If a possum is living in your roof, follow these steps to encourage it to relocate safely and legally:
🛠️ Steps to Remove a Possum from Your Roof
- Provide an alternative home – build or buy a weatherproof possum box
- Locate the possum’s nest in the roof and move it to the new box (it carries their scent)
- Securely fix the box in a tree at least 4 metres high, out of reach of pets
- Place half an apple or banana inside the box to attract the possum
- Trim branches that overhang your roof to remove access
- Spread quassia chips in the roof cavity (available at hardware or some pharmacies)
- Alternatively, use camphor blocks or mothballs, but never both together as they react chemically
- Place a light in the roof cavity and leave it on for 3 days and nights
- Once you’re sure the possum has left (usually after a few nights), block entry points at night with timber or chicken wire
❗ Legal & Ethical Note
Helpful information can also be found on the Queensland Department of Environment and Science website
Do not block access unless you’re certain the possum is gone
Possums are protected under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974
It is illegal to kill, harm, or trap and relocate a possum without a permit
For licenses or policies, visit the NPWS Possum Management Policy
Image: WIRES Wildlife Rescue
