St Marys’ proximity to the Nepean River flats means there is no shortage of established trees for possums to move between, and once one finds a gap in an older roof line, it usually settles in quickly. The scratching or thumping typically starts soon after dark when the possum heads out to feed. This page covers why possums turn up in St Marys roofs and how they get moved on properly.
Heavy footsteps or scratching not long after dark, often repeating closer to dawn, is the clearest sign. A musty smell over part of the ceiling and an obvious gap around a roof edge or eave are also worth checking for.
A roof gives a possum shelter close to the tree cover along the river flats and surrounding streets. Older St Marys homes with gaps in ageing roof sheeting or eaves make it easier for a possum to get in than a newer, tightly sealed roof.
Possums are a protected native animal in New South Wales, so the process is about encouraging one to leave rather than forcing it out. That starts with confirming the entry point, then fitting a one way door so the possum can leave to feed but cannot get back in the same way.
A one way door only works once fitted while the possum is out feeding after dark. Checking for a joey is also part of the process, particularly in the cooler months, since separating a mother from her young by rushing things is worth avoiding.
Once the roof is clear, properly sealing the entry point is what stops the next possum moving in. Given the tree cover near the river flats, it is worth checking nearby gaps too, since a possum will use whichever opening is easiest.
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They are territorial, and a home near tree cover will often see the same possum return unless the entry point is properly sealed.
No, sealing while a possum is still inside traps it, which usually leads to more damage and a worse smell.
They are around year round, with more activity through the cooler months and again during breeding season.
Yes, scratching and nesting material can affect insulation and ceiling linings over time.
It moves to a nearby tree or another roof close by, since possums generally stay within a small home range.
Possums are a protected species, so getting the roof properly checked to confirm the entry point is usually the more straightforward option.
Anyone dealing with this across St Marys can reach same day pest control st marys for this kind of job.
Our pest control experts are ready to answer any specific questions about your pest concerns.