Most Australian possums do not carry fleas or parasites that pose a risk to humans or pets. Field data and wildlife vets confirm infestations are rare in healthy wild possums.
Fleas and Parasities
Are Fleas and Parasites Common in Brisbane Possums?
No. Fleas and external parasites are rarely found on possums in Brisbane.
- Observed frequency: Fleas <5%, mites ~10%, ticks ~20%
- Context: Based on data from wildlife hospitals treating sick or injured possums
- Implication: Healthy possums likely have significantly lower rates
Are Australian Possums Like the American Opossum?
No. Australian brushtail and ringtail possums are not related to American opossums.
- Opossums (USA): Known parasite carriers
- Australian possums: Very few recorded flea infestations
- Main confusion: Misattribution of American opossum problems to local species
Which Parasites Affect Possums in Australia?
Possums may occasionally carry external parasites, but infestations are rare and incidental.
|
Parasite Type |
Incidence |
Impact |
|
Fleas |
~5% in sick possums |
Minor in healthy individuals |
|
Mites |
~10% |
Possible skin irritation |
|
Ticks (e.g., Ixodes spp.) |
~20% |
Mostly cattle or paralysis ticks |
- Example: One case at Taronga Zoo showed a sick ringtail infested with Echidnophaga myrmecobii fleas
- Main hosts of paralysis ticks: Bandicoots > echidnas > wallabies > possums
Can Possums Spread Parasites to Humans or Pets?
Unlikely. Fleas and ticks on possums rarely survive long or reproduce indoors.
- Fleas drop off after feeding
- Ticks rarely climb above 50 cm, making possums an unlikely target
- Vet insight: Hospital staff report no flea-related risks from sedated possums
Why Do Some People Think Possums Spread Fleas?
The myth likely originates from the American opossum’s behaviour:
- Opossums infest nests inside homes
- Parasites breed in nest debris
- Possum removal from walls/roofs can disturb latent infestations
Australian possums rarely exhibit this pattern.
What’s the Real Risk?
|
Condition |
Parasite Risk Level |
|
Healthy wild possum |
Low |
|
Sick or injured possum |
Mild–Moderate |
|
Juvenile possum in distress |
Possible anaemia |
|
Possum living in roof cavity |
Low (unless long-term nest debris exists) |
For most homeowners in Brisbane, the risk of parasite transmission from possums is negligible.
Need Help with Possum Problems or Wildlife Removal?
If you’re hearing bumps in the night or suspect wildlife has moved into your home, Peter the Possum Man provides licensed possum removal and wildlife control across Brisbane. We inspect your property, identify access points, and use humane, legal methods to secure your home against future intrusions.
Call Peter the Possum Man today to book your inspection and keep your roof cavity free from pests, parasites, and possum damage.
