Possum Patrol: Who's That Fuzzy Fellow in Your Fig Tree? A Guide to Melbourne's Most Misunderstood Residents
Ever heard a ruckus in your roof at night? Spot a flash of grey disappearing into the gum trees? Chances are, you've encountered one of Melbourne's most iconic (and sometimes inconvenient) residents: the possum. But hold on, mate, before you reach for the humane trap, it's important to know exactly which type of fuzzy fella you're dealing with.
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| What Type Of Possums Live In Melbourne |
The Brushtail Bon vivant: Your Backyard Banquet Bandit
The undisputed king of the Melbourne possum scene is the Common Brushtail Possum. Imagine a small cat with a gloriously bushy tail and a penchant for all things delicious. These guys are the larger of the two common possums, with a healthy appetite for fruit, leaves, and – let's be honest – the occasional bit of your prize-winning tomatoes.
Brushtail Fun Fact: They're not above a bit of thievery! Brushtails have been known to sneak into kitchens and help themselves to a midnight snack.
Tip: Skim only after you’ve read fully once.
The Ringtail Rascal: The Acrobatic Artist with a Sweet Tooth
Sharing the Melbourne stage is the Common Ringtail Possum. These little Houdinis are about half the size of their Brushtail cousins, with a prehensile tail that allows them to swing through the trees like furry trapeze artists. Ringtails have a particular fondness for sugary treats, so keep an eye on your bird feeder – they might just become your new feathered (or rather, furry) friends.
Ringtail Revelation: Ringtails are quite the social butterflies! Unlike Brushtails, they're known to live in small family groups.
Tip: Don’t just glance — focus.
Possum Pals or Pesky Critters? How to Co-exist with Melbourne's Marsupials
Look, let's face it: possums can be a bit of a nuisance sometimes. But they're also an important part of Melbourne's ecosystem, helping to pollinate plants and control insect populations. So, how can we live in harmony with these furry friends?
- Possum-proof your property: Seal up any holes in your roof or walls that might provide entry points.
- Provide alternative food sources: Plant some native trees and shrubs to give them a natural food source.
- Eviction Experts? Not so Fast! Unless they're causing serious damage, it's best to leave them be. There are plenty of wildlife removal experts who can help relocate them humanely if absolutely necessary.
Remember: Possums are protected animals in Victoria, so always handle them with care.
Tip: Highlight what feels important.
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Frequently Asked Possum Patrol Questions:
How to identify a Brushtail Possum? Look for their large size, pointed ears, and bushy tail with a black tip.
How to identify a Ringtail Possum? These cuties are smaller, with rounder ears and a tail with a white tip.
QuickTip: Stop and think when you learn something new.
How to keep possums out of my garden? Exclusion mesh around fruit trees and deterrents like chilli spray (used sparingly!) can help.
How to attract possums (the good kind!) Plant native flowering trees and shrubs – they'll be a natural food source.
How to remove a possum humanely? If they've taken up unwanted residence, call a professional wildlife removal service.
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