How To Make A Possum Box

What You’ll Need

10–12 mm thick, untreated pine or similar (not chipboard).
Galvanised nails for outdoor use
Waterproof PVA wood glue
Rubber strip from an old car inner tube
UV-resistant, non-toxic exterior paint: In a natural/earthy colour (outside only).
Chicken wire mesh
Garden hose to thread hanging wire through
Thick wire or chain: For securing the box to the tree (back/top).
Galvanised metal strap: For securing the bottom of the box to the tree.
Flat head nails to attach the strap.
Dead leaves or coconut fibre: Nesting material for inside the box.
Measuring tape to mark timber sizes
Hand saw or circular saw
Drill & drill bits (10–12 mm)
Hammer
Paintbrush (for sealing/painting the outside)
Tin snips or wire cutters (to cut chicken wire and metal strap)
Screwdriver (if using screws)
Pliers for twisting and tightening hanging wire
Sandpaper (to smooth rough timber edges).
Safety gear: gloves, dust mask (for sawing), safety glasses
Cordless drill/driver

Provide an alternative home for Brushtail Possums by constructing a sturdy, weatherproof box.

Difficulty: Easy – Moderate | Duration: 2–3 hours + drying

1
Use 10-12mm thick timber such as untreated pine; avoid chipboard.
2
Fix timber with galvanised nails and waterproof PVA glue.
3
Lid should overhang sides by 1-1.5cm and front by 10-12cm to prevent rain entering box.
4
Lid can be hinged at back by rubber strip cut from inner car tube.
5
The exterior of the box can be painted with UV-resistant, non-toxic paint to prolong its life and to make it less conspicuous. Use a colour that blends with the environment.
6
A few 10-12mm dia. holes should be drilled in the floor prior to placing some dead leaves or coconut fibre in the box.
7
Attach chicken wire mesh inside and outside the box to assist juveniles climbing in and out.
8
Hang box 3-4 metres above ground using thick wire or chain firmly secured to the back of the box; use a length of garden hose to protect the tree.
9
The bottom of the box should be secured to the tree using a galvanised metal strap and flat head nails.
10
The box should face away from the afternoon sun and strong prevailing winds.

1
Height: 3–5 metres up a tree, pole, or post
2
Angle: Entrance facing away from prevailing winds and strong sun
3
Secure with galvanised screws/bolts and wire (avoid nails that damage trees)
4
Add chicken wire or a roughened strip below the entrance hole to help possums climb in

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