To someone unfamiliar with Australia's wildlife, the sight of a possum may seem purely endearing - a furry creature with soft eyes and a playful demeanor. However, Australians are well aware that these native creatures pose a double-edged sword. While enjoying their rightful place in the unique Australian fauna, possums have also managed to insert themselves rather inconveniently as common house pests.
The problem with possums in the home isn't merely an aesthetic one, nor is it just about the noise they produce rummaging around roofing spaces at night. Beyond that, they contribute to the erosion of property value by damaging infrastructure, cause unpleasant odors, and are potential carriers of diseases.
The Possum Problem: Why They're More than Just Cute Faces
Despite their benign and often adorable appearances, possums can be a nuisance, often causing complexities for homeowners. Firstly, their nocturnal activity creates considerable noise disturbance, especially when they set up [residence in roofs or walls of homes. Secondly, possums can also cause significant damage to property, chewing through cables, wood, and even building materials.
However, as they are native creatures deeply rooted in the ecosystem, it is crucial to handle them humanely and professionally. After all, the issue arises not due to the possums themselves but due to them being displaced from their natural habitats. Hence, it is essential to strike a balance between our needs and the environmental respect we owe these critters.
The Wildlife Experts: Lifelines in Possum Pests Situations
Professional intervention plays an essential role when it comes to dealing with possum infestations. Not every homeowner feels comfortable dealing with the removal themselves. Even if not for phobia or disgust, there are legal implications to mind (more on that later). Moreover, professionals not only understand possum behavior and habits but are also trained in efficient and humane removal methods.
Wildlife experts usually use a variety of techniques to deal with a possum problem. These methods range from using specific types of bait to lure possums into humane live traps, to sealing off potential entry points to prevent further intrusion. They might even go the extra mile to repair any damages caused by these critters, ensuring a complete possum and hassle-free property.
Spy a Possum: Identifying a Possum Infestation
While a one-off spotting of a possum in your yard may not necessarily indicate an infestation, regular sightings or encounters could be a sign. Other signs to be wary of include scraping or rustling noises inside your walls or ceiling, particularly during the night when possums are most active.
Overturned trashcans, disturbed garden plants, and unusual pet behavior are also significant indicators. If you encounter these signs coupled with spotting possum droppings, which are typically cylindrical long pellets, you might have a possum problem on your hands. This is when it's time to call in the pros.
The Process: How the Pros Do It
The general process for safe and effective possum removal begins with a thorough property inspection. This allows professionals to gauge the extent of the infestation and identify potential points of access. They then decide on the most suitable trapping method and bait, taking care not to harm the animal during the trapping and subsequent release into suitable habitats.
Professionals typically use metal cages to trap possums, fitted with triggers that do not harm the animal. They use various types of bait, ranging from fruits to pet food depending on the possum's preference. The removal process is usually concluded within a couple of days, and the traps are removed soon after.
Possum-Proofing: Keeping the Furry Intruders at Bay
Prevention is the key to maintaining a possum-free home. Trimming overgrown trees or branches near the roofs can take away their preferred means of access. Block off any potential entrances with strong, resistant material that they cannot chew through. Regular inspection of your roofing can help detect and prevent any possum intrusion before it gets out of hand.
Other steps could also include securing your trash cans to limit their food access or setting up ultrasonic repellents. However, these methods are most effective when combined with professional services to ensure a long-term solution to the problem.
Is it legal to remove possums in Australia?
In Australia, it is legal to remove possums from your property, but it must be done humanely, considering their status as protected wildlife under the Wildlife Act 1975. Only licensed professionals are permitted to catch and release possums. However, homeowners can obtain a permit for possum trapping, but it requires the trapped possum to be released within 50 meters of capture. Therefore, seeking professional help often proves to be more effective.
The Cost-factor: What to Expect When Hiring a Wildlife Professional
The cost of hiring a professional possum removal service may vary depending on the complexity of the situation, the location of the property, the number of possums involved, and the level of damage incurred. On average, it could range from $200-$500. However, the potential damage that possums can cause if not dealt with can cost homeowners significantly more, making possum removal a valuable investment.
Ethical Considerations: Thinking about Possums and Their Habitats
While addressing the possum problem is essential for homeowners, it is equally crucial to think about the ethical implications of possum removal. It is important to respect the habitats, areas of activity, and attach importance to non-lethal methods. Stressing on professional, humane removal practices is vital to ensuring the well-being of these native creatures while also safeguarding our homes.
Conclusion: The Promise of a Possum-Free Home
Possums are a staple of the Australian wildlife scene. Still, their interactions with humans can sometimes be rather inconvenient, leading to significant issues for homeowners. By partnering with a professional wildlife service, you can secure your living spaces from these uncleared guests. Remember, the critical element in this process is to handle it humanely and with due respect to the animal's natural place in our shared environment.