Safely Getting Rid of Possums Living Inside Your Walls

Possums, while fascinating creatures, can become a serious nuisance when they find their way inside your home—especially within your walls. These nocturnal animals are known for their scratching noises, unpleasant odours, and potential to cause structural damage. Safely and effectively removing them requires understanding their behaviour and taking the right steps. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you address this issue.

How Do Possums End Up in Walls?

Possums are opportunistic animals that seek shelter in warm, safe places, especially during colder months. Walls provide an ideal refuge due to their insulation and protection from predators. They often enter homes through:

• Gaps in roofing or siding.
• Unsealed vents or crawl spaces.
• Broken attic windows or loose tiles.

Identifying how they got inside is the first step toward effective possum removal.

Signs of Possums Living in Your Walls

If you suspect possums have taken up residence in your walls, look for these telltale signs:

• Noises: Scratching, scuttling, or thumping sounds, particularly at night.
• Odors: A strong, unpleasant smell from their droppings or urine.
• Droppings: Possum faeces near entry points or inside your attic.
• Damage: Chewed wires, insulation, or wooden beams.
• Visual Sightings: Spotting a possum entering or leaving your home.

DIY Methods to Remove Possums

If the problem is minor, you may be able to handle it yourself. Here are some safe and humane DIY solutions:

• Identify Entry Points:
  • Inspect your home for holes, gaps, or broken areas where possums could enter.
  • Pay close attention to the roof and siding.
• Use Bright Lights and Loud Noises:
  • Place a flashlight or floodlight in the suspected area.
  • Play loud music or use a radio to make the space uncomfortable for the possum.
• Install a One-Way Exit Door:
  • Attach a one-way door over the entry point to allow the possum to leave but prevent re-entry.
• Set Up a Humane Trap:
  • Use a cage trap baited with fruit or peanut butter.
  • Release the possum at least three miles away from your home, as allowed by local wildlife laws.
• Seal the Entry Points:
  • Once the possum has left, seal all entry points with durable materials like steel mesh or caulk.

While these methods can be effective, persistent infestations may require professional assistance.

Why Call a Professional?

For severe infestations or if you’re unsure how to handle the situation, contacting professionals is your best option. Experts specializing in possum removal from roof areas and other parts of the home can:

• Safely and humanely remove the possums.
• Identify and seal all entry points to prevent future issues.
• Clean and sanitize the affected areas.
• Provide guidance on long-term prevention.

Hiring professionals ensures that the removal process is effective and compliant with local wildlife regulations.

Preventing Possums from Entering Your Walls

Prevention is key to avoiding possum-related issues in the future. Here are some tips to keep your home possum-free:

• Seal Your Home:
  • Inspect your roof, vents, and walls for gaps or damage.
  • Use steel mesh or other durable materials to block entry points.
• Trim Overhanging Branches:
  • Possums use tree branches as pathways to your roof. Trim them back to at least 10 feet from your home.
• Secure Garbage Bins:
  • Use tight-fitting lids to prevent possums from scavenging for food.
• Install Motion-Activated Lights or Sprinklers:
  • These devices can deter possums from approaching your home.
• Remove Attractants:
  • Clear away fallen fruit, pet food, and other potential food sources from your yard.

Summary

Dealing with possums inside your walls can be challenging, but with the right approach, you can resolve the issue safely and humanely. DIY methods such as using lights, setting up traps, and sealing entry points can be effective for minor infestations. For more severe cases, experts in possum removal from roof and wall spaces can provide the expertise needed to protect your home.

Take action today to ensure your home remains possum-free. If you’re facing persistent issues, contact a trusted wildlife control service to handle the situation efficiently.

Frequently Asked Questions