Possums can be cute and quirky creatures, but they can also cause quite a nuisance in suburban backyards especially if you are expecting a harvest from your fruit trees! These critters are notorious for their scavenging habits and can wreak havoc on your garden, damage your property, and spread diseases. As nocturnal animals, they are most active at night and can quickly turn your peaceful backyard into a noisy battleground. Whilst we want to leave them in peace, there are several effective strategies you can use to keep possums out of your backyard and protect your property. In this post, we’ll explore the most tried and tested ways to keep possums at bay.
Why do possums come into our yard in the first place?
Possums have a natural instinct to scavenge for food and shelter during the night, which can lead them to break into suburban backyards. Possums are attracted to food sources such as pet food, bird feeders, and fruit trees, as well as sheltered areas such as sheds or under decks. Additionally, possums are known to use suburban backyards as a safe path to travel between their nocturnal feeding and daytime sleeping areas. It would be fair to take a moment to remember that these dear critters were here long before we plonked our houses where they are now!
1. Clear their initial path to you back yard
Clearing limbs and eliminating ways for possums to get into your backyard are important steps in possum-proofing your property. Start by trimming any overhanging branches that provide possums with easy access to your yard. Make sure that any trees or structures close to your fence are not within jumping distance of possums. Also, check for gaps or holes in your fence, roof, or any other structures in your yard that possums could use to enter. It is essential to repair or block off any openings that provide possums with access. By clearing limbs and removing entry points, you can reduce the chances of possums entering your yard and protect your garden from their damage.
2. Motion Sensors with lights and Sprinklers
Possums love to be discrete and will not persist if too much chaos in happening. Motion sensors can be an effective solution to keep possums out of your yard. These sensors detect movement and activate a device, such as a sprinkler or light, to scare the possums away. Since possums are nocturnal creatures, the activation of motion sensors will surprise them and make them flee. Motion sensors are easy to install and can be adjusted to detect movement in specific areas. They are also a humane way of possum-proofing your yard, as they do not harm the animals. By using motion sensors, you can protect your garden and keep possums out of your yard.
3. Solar electric Fence line
A solar electric fence line can be an effective solution to keep possums out of your yard. This type of fence uses a solar-powered charger to electrify the wire, creating a mild shock that is enough to deter possums from attempting to climb or jump over it. Solar electric fences are easy to install and maintain, and they are an affordable option compared to traditional fences. The fence line can be installed on top of your existing fence or on its own to create a barrier around your yard. However, it is important to ensure that the fence is installed correctly and that there are no gaps or openings that possums can use to bypass it. By using a solar electric fence line, you can create a physical barrier that prevents possums from entering your yard and protect your garden from their damage. Many successful urban food growers use this technique.
Here is an example of the product (we have no affiliation with them)
https://ourpetshop.com.au/products/giantz-3km-solar-electric-fence-energiser-charger-with-400m-tape-and-25pcs-insulators?variant=40407881744473¤cy=AUD&utm_medium=product_sync&utm_source=google&utm_content=sag_organic&utm_campaign=sag_organic&gclid=Cj0KCQjwla-hBhD7ARIsAM9tQKtFImSYF4ToSiR3PRd9vANbas5CukuINa53Ml4Qs897N_TtxV9X6ikaAm8pEALw_wcB
What has and hasn’t worked for you in your garden? Comment below so that we can all grow together.