Pest Spotlight – Possums: NZ’s Nocturnal Nuisance
- T & C's Pest Control Services
- 4 days ago
- 4 min read
Across rural New Zealand, one of the most destructive pests isn’t always seen, but its impact is widespread. The common brushtail possum (Trichosurus vulpecula), introduced from Australia in the 1830s, has become a significant threat to both farming operations and native ecosystems. What began as an introduction for the fur trade has turned into a nationwide problem, with possums now firmly established in nearly every region.
As autumn settles in, possums increase their feeding activity in preparation for winter. For rural property owners, this seasonal change is a critical time to understand the behaviour of possums, the damage they cause, and why monitoring and control efforts are essential—especially when undertaken humanely.
Possums and Their Impact on Rural New Zealand
Possums are nocturnal, omnivorous mammals that have adapted extremely well to New Zealand’s environment. Lacking natural predators, their populations grew rapidly throughout the 20th century. While widespread control efforts have been ongoing for decades, possum numbers remain high in many areas, particularly native forests, farmland edges, and orchard regions.
Possums are responsible for consuming an estimated 20,000 tonnes of native vegetation every night across the country. This includes the leaves, fruit, flowers, and seeds of key native trees such as kōwhai, rātā, and pōhutukawa. In areas where possum density is high, trees can be completely defoliated and eventually die from repeated browsing.
The impact on New Zealand’s native birdlife is also severe. Possums raid nests, eating eggs and chicks, and they compete for food sources such as nectar and fruit, making it harder for native birds like kererū, tūī, and fantails to thrive.
Possum Hotspots in the Wellington Region
In the Wellington Region, possum activity is especially common along bush margins, hill country, and sheltered gullies where native vegetation offers both food and cover. Rural properties near conservation land, forestry blocks, and riparian zones are at higher risk, particularly in areas like Kapiti Coast, Wairarapa, and the Hutt Valley foothills.
We frequently see higher possum numbers in these areas during autumn, as possums move closer to farmland and orchards in search of easy food sources. This increased movement means that even well-maintained properties can become targets for possum activity if surrounding land offers suitable habitat.
By understanding where possums are likely to be active in your region, landowners can take proactive steps to monitor and manage pest risks before they escalate in winter.
Risks to Farms and Orchards
Possums are not just a threat to native wildlife; they also cause significant damage to rural businesses. In farm environments, possums often invade fruit orchards, particularly targeting apples, kiwifruit, and stone fruits. They also break into grain stores and feed supplies, contaminating them with droppings and urine, which not only reduces feed quality but can also lead to livestock health risks.
Possums can also damage infrastructure by climbing and damaging fences, chewing on woodwork, and nesting in sheds or roof spaces.
Possums and Bovine Tuberculosis (TB)
In several regions of New Zealand, possums are known carriers of bovine tuberculosis (TB), a serious disease that affects cattle and deer. Infected possums can transmit the disease to livestock through shared food sources, contaminated environments, and indirect contact. The presence of TB-infected possums has led to strict stock movement restrictions, increased costs for testing and culling, and economic losses for farmers.
Regions such as parts of the Wellington Region, West Coast, and North Canterbury foothills are particularly at risk. In these areas, possum control is not just about protecting property—it’s about biosecurity and animal health.
Autumn Behaviour – Why April is Critical
During autumn, possums increase their activity and feeding to build fat reserves for the colder months ahead. This makes them more mobile and more likely to venture into pastures, orchards, and farm buildings in search of food. April also coincides with the start of their breeding season. Female possums typically give birth to their first litter between March and May, with the young staying in the pouch for several months before becoming independent.
By controlling possums in April, landowners can reduce the likelihood of population growth in spring and limit the damage to vegetation and crops during a time when pasture growth slows, and every bit of feed becomes valuable.
Recognising Possum Activity on Your Property
Possums are most active at night, which can make it difficult to detect them until damage becomes visible. Signs to look for include:
Stripped leaves or fruit on trees and vines.
Droppings around trees, sheds, or feed areas.
Scratching or growling noises at night near buildings or trees.
Flattened tracks or paths through grass and bush margins.
Damage to feed bags, fencing, or wooden structures.
Early detection can help prevent larger problems as winter approaches.
Our Humane Approach to Possum Control
We understand the importance of controlling pests responsibly. That’s why we use humane methods that are effective and safe for your land, stock, and native wildlife. We do not use traps, poisons, or harmful chemicals, making our services suitable for all types of rural properties, including those with working dogs, young stock, or conservation areas.
Our process begins with a property assessment to identify possum activity and risk areas. From there, we provide targeted, humane control of these pests, and monitoring advice to help you stay ahead of future infestations.
Protect Your Land Before Winter
Possums may be small, but their impact is anything but. Taking action in April helps ensure your pasture, crops, and native bush are protected through winter and beyond. It also reduces the risk of stock illness and TB transmission, saving time and money in the long run.
If you’re noticing signs of pests - or want to make sure your property is protected - get in touch with us today. We’ll help you assess your land and create a custom, humane pest control plan that fits your needs.
Contact Us: tandcsnz@gmail.com
Service Areas: Greater Wellington Region and surrounding rural areas
Website: https://www.tandcspestcontrolnz.com/
Let’s work together to keep your property pest-free this autumn—the humane way.
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