4 Smells That Deter Possums Away

Possums, while native and protected in Australia, can become a serious nuisance when they invade your roof or garden. These nocturnal creatures can damage property, create noise at night, and pose health risks. Luckily, possums are highly sensitive to smell, making scent-based deterrents an effective, humane solution. Whether you’re dealing with urban or suburban invaders, using odours they dislike can help keep them at bay without harming them. If you're searching for safe and reliable pest control in Perth services, understanding which natural scents drive possums away can be your first line of defence before calling in the professionals. Let’s explore four powerful smells that possums simply can’t stand.

Garlic – A Potent Natural Barrier

Garlic has a pungent and overpowering aroma that can drive away even the most stubborn possum. Its smell lingers in the air and masks the natural scents possums use to navigate. This makes it an excellent, all-natural deterrent.

To use garlic as a repellent, crush a few cloves and scatter them around areas frequented by possums. You can also create a garlic spray by mixing crushed garlic with water and spraying it around entry points, fence lines, or garden beds.

Another effective method is to tie pieces of cloth soaked in garlic water and hang them near the roof or trees, especially during the evening when possums become active. Replace them every few days to maintain their potency.

When you notice droppings or suspect a possum has moved into your roof, pairing garlic with other deterrents can deliver better results. While it also has the added benefit of keeping insects at bay, garlic’s intense smell is particularly effective in ant pest control in Perth as well—making it a dual-purpose pest solution for your home.

Mothballs – Old-School But Effective

Mothballs may seem outdated, but their strong chemical smell can be very unappealing to possums. Typically used to keep insects away from clothes, mothballs contain naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene—both of which are known to produce a strong odour that deters small mammals.

Place a few mothballs in areas where possums might be nesting or passing through—such as your roof cavity, garage, or garden corners. Be cautious about where you place them, especially if you have pets or children, as these substances can be toxic if ingested.

The strength of mothballs lies in their slow evaporation rate. The smell remains for several days, creating a consistent sensory barrier. When used sparingly and strategically, they can provide a low-maintenance solution for keeping possums away.

Interestingly, this scent-based tactic is commonly used in rat control in Perth practices as well, since it targets many of the same animal behaviours. Just remember to replace them periodically for continued effectiveness.

Eucalyptus Oil – Nature’s Own Deterrent

Eucalyptus oil is another powerful scent that possums cannot stand. Given that eucalyptus trees are native to Australia, it might sound ironic—but concentrated eucalyptus oil is much more intense than the natural smell of the leaves.

You can soak cotton balls in eucalyptus oil and place them in corners of your attic, garden sheds, or around your compost bins. Reapply the oil every few days, especially during warmer months when evaporation occurs faster.

This method is not only humane but environmentally friendly as well. Unlike chemical solutions, eucalyptus oil won't harm your plants, pets, or soil.

When you're dealing with an ongoing infestation, this solution works best as a preventative measure after professional possum removal in Perth has taken place. It's a great way to deter possums from returning to their old nesting grounds once they've been removed legally and safely.

Additionally, eucalyptus oil has the added bonus of freshening your home while repelling pests—a win-win for any homeowner!

Predator Urine – Triggering Natural Fear

Using the scent of predators is one of the most psychologically effective ways to scare off possums. Fox or dog urine, available in pellet or liquid form from some garden supply stores, mimics the scent of natural predators and triggers the possum’s instinct to flee.

This method might not be suitable for everyone, particularly in urban environments, but it’s highly effective when used in secluded gardens, farm areas, or near bushland.

Simply apply small amounts near known entry points or around garbage bins where possums often forage for food. Be sure to reapply after rain or heavy watering as the scent can wash away.

This type of deterrent is ideal for large areas where possums are recurring visitors. However, the key is to rotate different smells occasionally so possums don’t become accustomed to one particular scent.

While it might sound unusual, this approach uses nature’s own cues to help you reclaim your space without causing harm.

Possums are protected wildlife, but that doesn’t mean you have to share your home with them. With the right knowledge and a few simple scent-based strategies, you can effectively discourage these furry intruders from nesting in your space. However, when the situation becomes persistent or overwhelming, it’s best to turn to the experts.

Let Eco Safe Pest Control provide a safe, eco-friendly, and humane solution to your possum issues. We specialise in comprehensive pest and rodent management across Perth. Give us a call at 0424800001 or email us at [email protected] to book your inspection or service today. Protect your home the natural way—with the professionals you can trust!