Why You Should Never Handle a Possum Yourself: The Dangers of DIY Removal

Home » Why You Should Never Handle a Possum Yourself: The Dangers of DIY Removal

Finding a possum in your roof, garage, garden, or under your house can be alarming. These nocturnal creatures are unexpected guests, and many homeowners feel tempted to deal with the problem themselves. However, attempting DIY possum removal is one of the most dangerous and costly mistakes you can make. From serious health risks and aggressive behavior to legal consequences and long-term property damage, handling a possum yourself can quickly turn into a nightmare. In this article, we’ll explain why you should never handle a possum on your own, the hidden dangers involved, and why safe and humane possum removal by professionals is always the smartest choice.

Understanding Possum Behavior

Possums may look harmless or even cute, but they are wild animals with strong survival instincts. When threatened, cornered, or handled, possums can become aggressive without warning. Unlike domestic animals, possums:
  • Are highly territorial
  • Become stressed easily
  • Defend themselves with sharp claws and teeth
  • Can attack if they feel trapped
Many DIY attempts fail because people underestimate how unpredictable possums can be. Even a normally calm possum can lash out when approached.

The Health Risks of Handling a Possum

One of the biggest dangers of DIY possum removal is exposure to serious health hazards.

Diseases Possums Can Carry

Possums are known carriers of bacteria, parasites, and diseases that can be transmitted to humans and pets, including:
  • Leptospirosis
  • Salmonella
  • Tuberculosis
  • Toxoplasmosis
  • Fleas, ticks, and mites
Direct contact, bites, scratches, or even inhaling dust contaminated with possum urine or droppings can lead to infection.

Risk of Bites and Scratches

Possums have strong jaws and sharp claws. A single bite can:
  • Break skin easily
  • Cause deep wounds
  • Require emergency medical treatment
  • Lead to infection or disease transmission
Professional wildlife handlers use protective equipment and specialized techniques to avoid these dangers. Without proper training, you’re putting your health at serious risk.

Possums Can Be More Aggressive Than You Expect

Many people assume possums will “play dead” when approached. While this behavior exists, it is unreliable and should never be counted on. When stressed, possums may:
  • Hiss loudly
  • Lunge suddenly
  • Bite or scratch repeatedly
  • Attempt to escape through ceilings or walls
DIY attempts often result in possums panicking, causing injuries or damaging your home as they try to flee.

DIY Removal Can Cause Major Property Damage

Trying to remove a possum yourself can make the situation much worse.

Common DIY Mistakes Include

  • Blocking entry points while the possum is still inside
  • Chasing the possum through roof cavities
  • Using inappropriate traps
  • Forcing the animal out during daylight
These actions can cause possums to:
  • Tear insulation and wiring
  • Break roof tiles
  • Scratch walls and beams
  • Urinate and defecate throughout your roof space
In some cases, frightened possums fall through ceilings, leading to expensive repairs and contamination issues.

It May Be Illegal to Handle Possums Yourself

In many regions, possums are protected wildlife. Handling, relocating, injuring, or killing a possum without proper authorization can result in heavy fines. Laws often regulate:
  • How possums may be removed
  • When removal is allowed (e.g., breeding seasons)
  • Where possums can be released
  • What methods are considered humane
Attempting DIY possum removal without understanding local wildlife laws can lead to legal trouble on top of an already stressful situation.

Why Trapping a Possum Yourself Is Dangerous

Trapping may seem like a simple solution, but improper trapping is both dangerous and inhumane.

Risks of DIY Trapping

  • Possums can injure themselves inside traps
  • Trapped possums become extremely aggressive
  • You still have to handle or transport the animal
  • Incorrect traps may harm other wildlife or pets
Professionals use approved traps and follow strict guidelines to ensure safe and humane possum removal without unnecessary suffering or risk.

Possums Often Come Back If Not Removed Properly

Even if you manage to scare or force a possum out, the problem often isn’t solved. Possums are highly territorial and excellent climbers. If entry points aren’t properly sealed:
  • The same possum may return
  • Another possum may move in
  • The infestation can worsen
Professional possum removal includes identifying entry points, installing exclusion devices, and preventing future invasions-steps often missed in DIY attempts.

The Importance of Safe and Humane Possum Removal

Ethical wildlife control is not just about getting rid of the animal-it’s about doing it the right way. Safe and humane possum removal focuses on:
  • Protecting people and pets
  • Minimizing stress and harm to the possum
  • Complying with wildlife protection laws
  • Preventing future infestations
Professionals are trained to handle possums calmly, safely, and legally, ensuring a solution that benefits everyone involved.

Why Professional Possum Removal Is Worth It

Hiring a licensed possum removal expert may seem costly at first, but it often saves money in the long run.

Benefits of Professional Removal

  • Reduced risk of injury or disease
  • No legal complications
  • Minimal property damage
  • Long-term prevention solutions
  • Ethical treatment of wildlife
Professionals understand possum behavior and use proven methods that work efficiently and safely.

Common Myths About DIY Possum Removal

Myth 1: “Possums Are Harmless”
While not naturally aggressive, possums will defend themselves when threatened.
Myth 2: “I Can Just Chase It Away”
Chasing a possum often makes it panic, causing damage or injury.
Myth 3: “Traps Are Easy to Use”
Incorrect trapping can harm both you and the possum and may be illegal.
Myth 4: “It’s Cheaper to Do It Myself”
Medical bills, property damage, and fines can quickly exceed professional removal costs.

What to Do If You Find a Possum on Your Property

If you suspect or see a possum:
  • Do not touch or approach it
  • Keep children and pets away
  • Avoid blocking exits or entry points
  • Contact a licensed wildlife removal specialist
  • Request an inspection for safe and humane possum removal
Acting calmly and responsibly ensures the situation is resolved without unnecessary risk.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Risk DIY Possum Removal

Handling a possum yourself is dangerous, illegal in many areas, and often ineffective. What starts as a simple problem can escalate into injuries, property damage, health risks, and legal consequences. The safest, smartest, and most ethical solution is always safe and humane possum removal performed by trained professionals. By choosing expert help, you protect your home, your family, and the wildlife that shares our environment. If you’re dealing with a possum issue, resist the urge to DIY-and call the professionals instead.