Old Wives’ Tales About Removing Possums from Roofs
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
If you’ve ever been woken up by thumping or scratching in a wall or the unmistakable sound of something running across your ceiling around dusk and dawn the chances are it’s a possum.
It will either be a Brushtail Possum, Ringtail Possum or a Sugar Glider and if you’re extremely lucky/unlucky maybe all three— they are all native, protected species. That means you can’t legally harm them, or trap them and take them away.
Over the years, plenty of “old wives’ tales” have circulated about how to get rid of possums from a roof. The problem? Most of them simply don’t work — or only work for a day or two before the possum moves right back in.
Here’s a look at the most common myths.
1. The Smell-Based Remedies
These are probably the most popular suggestions — and the least effective.
Mothballs in the Roof
The strong smell is supposed to drive possums out. In reality, the odour dissipates quickly in ventilated roof spaces. Urban possums usually tolerate it.
Camphor Blocks in Socks
Same idea, same outcome. Strong at first, ignored shortly after.
Garlic or Onion in the Ceiling
Possums live outdoors among all sorts of strong plant smells. A few cloves of garlic aren’t going to send them packing.
Peppermint, Eucalyptus, or Tea Tree Oil
These may briefly irritate them, but oils evaporate fast. Once the smell fades, the possum returns.
Vinegar Spray
It dries quickly and has no lasting effect.
Chilli Powder or Cayenne Pepper
It washes away with moisture and doesn’t stop determined possums.
Why these don’t work:
Possums are highly adaptable and accustomed to strong natural odours. Temporary smells don’t override the comfort and safety of a sheltered roof cavity.
2. Noise and Light Tricks
Many homeowners try to make the roof space “uncomfortable.”
Playing Loud Talkback Radio Overnight
Possums quickly get used to consistent noise. After a few nights, it becomes background sound.
Banging on the Ceiling
This startles them in the moment — but they usually return once things quiet down.
Leaving Lights On in the Roof
They’ll simply move to a darker corner.
Hanging Wind Chimes Near Entry Points
Urban possums are used to unpredictable sounds. A bit of tinkling won’t deter them.
Why these don’t work:
Possums are nocturnal and thrive in urban environments. They adapt quickly to non-threatening disturbances.
3. Predator Scare Tactics
These rely on tricking the possum into thinking danger is nearby.
Dog Hair in the Roof
Old fur doesn’t replicate the scent of an active predator.
Used Kitty Litter
Unless there’s a real, fresh predator presence, possums generally ignore it.
Fake Plastic Snakes and Owls
Possums rely more on scent and movement than static visuals.
Why these don’t work:
Possums are cautious but intelligent. They can distinguish between a real threat and a harmless object surprisingly quickly.
4. “Redirect Them Elsewhere” Ideas
These often backfire.
Leaving Fruit Away from the House
This may attract more possums — and possibly rats.
Sprinkling Blood and Bone Fertiliser
Strong smells can actually draw wildlife closer rather than push it away.
5. Quick Fix Access Tricks
Greasing Tree Trunks
It wears off quickly and can harm trees or other wildlife.
Wrapping Plastic Around Trees
If not done properly with fitted metal collars, possums can climb around it.
Why These Old Wives’ Tales Fail
Most myths focus on making the possum uncomfortable. But possums:
Are territorial
Prefer sheltered nesting spots
Adapt quickly to urban disturbances
Will persist if they’ve already claimed your roof as home
Temporary smells and noises don’t outweigh the benefit of a safe, dry nesting space.
The Real Issue Isn’t the Possum — It’s the Access
The only long-term solution is addressing how they’re getting in and preventing re-entry — done legally and humanely.
The Possum Professional
That’s where The Possum Professional comes in. With 25 years of making buildings possum proof and solving the issue usually in one night your possum problem that you may of attempted to deal with using these methods for weeks, months or even years will be resolved overnight.
By repairing all existing entry points and any weak points, installing a humane possum exit and motion sensor cameras the possums will simply leave the roof and not return. Cameras are monitored making sure every possum has left safely.
Once satisfied the possums are safely out of the roof, the camera and possum exit are removed and the final seal is done to your building.
To rid your roof of possums ‘get the job done right’ and contact The Possum Professional.
A Brushtail Possum using a possum exit to leave the roof. Three Brushtail Possums were gaining access via a ventilation flue. Possum exits are extremely versatile and can be used in all different situations. No trap is ever needed.
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