The simple answer is no—it is illegal to trap possums without a permit. Learn why relocating possums is ineffective and discover legal, humane ways to keep them out of your home and garden.
Possums in Cage
Why Is It Illegal to Trap Possums?
1. Possums Are Protected Under Australian Law
- Native animals, including possums, are protected by law.
- A wildlife permit is required to trap or relocate possums.
2. Untrained Handling Can Harm Possums
- Without proper knowledge, trapped possums may suffer injuries or stress.
- Incorrect trapping or relocation can lead to dehydration, starvation, or attacks from predators.
Why Relocating Possums Doesn’t Work
1. Relocated Possums Often Die
- Possums are territorial, meaning a relocated possum will enter another possum’s territory.
- It doesn’t know where to hide or find food, making it vulnerable.
2. Another Possum Will Replace It
- Removing one possum creates a vacant territory, which attracts new possums.
- Many homeowners report removing multiple possums, only to have more return.
3. Research Confirms Relocation Fails
- Radio tracking studies show that evicted possums return to familiar areas or struggle to survive in new locations.
How to Legally Remove a Possum from Your Roof
1. Identify and Seal Entry Points
- Possums enter through gaps in roofs, eaves, and vents.
- Seal off holes with strong metal mesh to prevent re-entry.
2. Use a Licensed Possum Removal Service
- Professional possum catchers can legally trap and evict possums.
- Possums must be released within 50 meters of capture, ensuring they stay in familiar territory.
3. Provide an Alternative Shelter
- Installing a possum box in your garden encourages evicted possums to relocate naturally.
How to Protect Your Garden from Possums
1. Protect Vulnerable Plants
- Use metal cages or wire mesh around prized plants.
- Wrap tree trunks with metal collars to prevent climbing.
2. Reduce Food Sources
- Avoid leaving out pet food, uncovered compost, or fallen fruit.
- Secure bins with tight-fitting lids.
3. Install Motion-Activated Deterrents
- Sensor lights or motion-activated sprinklers can help keep possums away.
Why Learning to Coexist with Possums Is the Best Solution
1. Possums Are a Natural Part of Urban Brisbane
- Brisbane gardens are ideal possum habitats, meaning removal won’t permanently solve the issue.
- Accepting their presence and taking preventative measures is the best long-term strategy.
2. Possums Help the Environment
- They control insect populations and help with seed dispersal.
- Removing them disrupts local ecosystems.
Why Choose Peter the Possum & Bird Man for Possum Control?
1. Licensed and Experienced Possum Handlers
- Our team is legally permitted to remove and manage possums safely.
2. Humane and Effective Methods
- We seal entry points and provide exclusion solutions to prevent re-entry.
3. Long-Term Possum Management
- We advise on garden protection, deterrents, and possum-proofing solutions.
Final Thoughts on Possum Cages and Removal
Buying a possum cage is illegal, and relocating possums is ineffective and inhumane. Instead, the best solution is sealing entry points, using legal removal services, and protecting your garden.
For expert possum removal and proofing, trust Peter the Possum & Bird Man to help you live in harmony with Brisbane’s wildlife.
Thinking about trapping a possum? Don’t risk breaking the law—or harming our native wildlife. At Peter the Possum & Bird Man, our licensed team uses humane, legal methods to remove possums, seal entry points, and help you protect your home and garden for the long term. We don’t just relocate possums—we keep them out for good.
Contact us now for expert, ethical possum control that’s safe for your family and compliant with Queensland law.
