January 27, 2026

Did You Know? 17 January

Did you know the most common possum species found in the Hinchinbrook Shire is the Brushtail Possum?

These cheeky night-owls are pros at living alongside humans. The Brushtail Possum is highly adaptable and often sets up home in sheds, roof cavities, wall spaces and backyard trees. In built-up areas where old hollow trees are scarce, our homes can become their cosy substitute.

Brushtails love to travel high, using fences and power lines as possum highways while foraging for fruit and leaves. When they’re forced to the ground, however, they’re far more vulnerable to cars, dogs and other dangers.

If you think a possum has moved into your roof, there are humane ways to check and manage the situation. Look for signs like droppings, fur or urine stains, and gently block suspected entry points with paper to see if they’re disturbed. Always make sure the possum has safely exited before sealing gaps, and never trap or relocate one without proper advice.

They might be noisy neighbours—but they’re an important part of our local wildlife too!