Many types of urban animals are scavengers that visit human homes to find food in their garbage cans. While some know their place and never try to mess with humans themselves, some can bring danger to the residents. One of them is the possum.

If you live in Brisbane, you know that possums are pretty common here. Do not be fooled by their cute faces—these animals can be detrimental to you and your family. Here’s what you need to know.

What Are Possums?

Possums are four-legged arboreal marsupials that are prevalent throughout Australia. They typically have large, pointy ears, round eyes, and long tails. Common brushtail possums, the most widespread of these animals, span around 32–58 cm long. Possums are nocturnal and like to hide in trees.

Why Are Possums Dangerous?

Possums threaten your home because they can chew your wires and tear your insulation. That can cause some damage to your appliances, such as your refrigerator or dishwasher. But the worst part is that possums can carry a specific type of bacteria that can cause you some infections if you come in contact with them.

This bacteria is called the leptospira. It causes leptospirosis, which can be deadly if left untreated. Some symptoms include fever, chills, muscle aches, and especially vomiting. If you think you’ve been exposed to leptospira, you must call your doctor immediately.

These animals also carry mites and ticks. Furthermore, possums may also carry ringworms or tapeworms. These parasites can be a nuisance to your family and pets.

How to Spot a Possum

Possums are most active at night. You can quickly spot them by looking at the materials they gather from your garbage cans. If you found some messes in your garbage bins or furniture, that could mean this animal has already invaded your home.

Possums are omnivores and will eat just about anything, but they especially like fruits and vegetables. So, if you have a garden, make sure that you have a fence around your yard to prevent possums from destroying them. If you have an attic, it is also an excellent place for these animals to live, especially when they are cold.

Possum Prevention Measures

The best way to get rid of them would be to monitor the area by setting up traps. If you see them during the day, you must contact a professional possum control service to get the job done.

There are also some products that you can use to repel possums from your property. These repellents can be bought from your local hardware store. They’re very effective in deterring these animals but require diligence and the right strategy. If you don’t use them correctly, they won’t work.

There are also ultrasonic devices that you can use to keep possums away. These devices emit a sound that is too high for humans to hear. However, these sounds are inaudible to animals. It can be a good idea if you live in a private place. You can set up your ultrasonic devices in your backyards to keep possums out.

Conclusion

You might want to ask the professionals to do the job for you in the end. They have the tools and equipment to get rid of possums, and they know what to do. However, if you have the time and the patience to research the matter yourself, you can try to do it. But remember, be careful. Possums are dangerous animals, even though they are very cute-looking.

Clean & Green Pest Control is an organic and natural pest control service in Northern Beaches and the Sydney Metropolitan. We treat and eradicate all kinds of typical residential and commercial pests. We make sure only to use environmentally friendly pest control products so your family and pets would stay safe. If you are looking for any kind of pest management, book our service!