M04 · Mammal
Brushtail Possum
Trichosurus vulpecula
Native and PROTECTED. Loud roof guests that can only be excluded — not killed or relocated far from home.
- Size
- 35–55 cm body + tail
- Habitat
- Roof voids, tree hollows, sheds
- Activity
- Nocturnal, year-round
Safety Warning
Possums are protected wildlife. Killing, trapping for more than 24 hours, or relocating off-property is a serious offence.
Overview
Brushtail and ringtail possums are protected under state wildlife legislation. In most states you cannot kill, harm, or relocate them more than 50 m from where they were caught. The only legal solution is exclusion: trap, release on the property the same night, and seal entry points while they're out feeding.
How to identify
- Heavy thumping and running across the ceiling at night
- Loud guttural hissing, coughing or screeching
- Strong ammonia urine smell in the roof
- Stripped fruit trees or chewed roses
General guidance only. Information on Home Pest Defence is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional advice. For termites, venomous spider bites, wasp nests in walls, or protected wildlife, contact a licensed pest controller, your GP, or the relevant state wildlife authority. In emergencies call 000; for poisoning call 13 11 26.