Is It Possible to Raise a Baby Possum?

Possums are an integral part of Australia’s wildlife, often seen scurrying through gardens and trees. But what happens if you come across a baby possum?  Can you rear it yourself, or is there a better course of action? While the idea of raising a baby possum may sound noble, it’s important to understand the challenges and legal implications involved. If there are many possums you have to work on possum removal but if you find baby possum you have to handle it differently. 

In this article, we’ll explore whether you can rear a baby possum, the responsibilities it entails, and the best steps to take if you find one.

Understanding Baby Possums

Baby possums, also known as joeys, are marsupials that rely on their mothers for survival. They spend the first few months of their lives in the mother’s pouch before transitioning to riding on her back. If a baby possum is found alone, it may have been orphaned due to accidents, predation, or human interference.

Can You Legally Rear a Baby Possum?

In Australia, possums are protected under wildlife laws, making it illegal to harm or keep them as pets without proper authorisation. Rearing a baby possum requires special permits and expertise in wildlife care. Without these, attempting to raise a baby possum can result in penalties and is detrimental to the animal’s wellbeing.

Challenges of Rearing a Baby Possum

Raising a baby possum is not as simple as feeding it and providing shelter. Here are some challenges to consider:

1. Dietary Needs:
   Baby possums require a specialised diet to meet their nutritional needs. Incorrect feeding can lead to health issues or even death.
   
2. Warmth and Care:
   Joeys rely on their mother’s body warmth, so creating the right environment is crucial. This includes maintaining specific temperatures and conditions.
   
3. Wild Instincts:
   Possums are wild animals with natural behaviours that need to be nurtured for their survival in the wild. Hand-rearing can lead to dependency, making it difficult for them to be released back into their natural habitat.
   
4. Time and Commitment:
   Caring for a baby possum is a 24/7 responsibility that requires dedication and resources.

What to Do If You Find a Baby Possum

If you come across a baby possum, here’s what you should do:

1. Check for Injuries:
   Gently examine the joey for visible injuries. If it appears hurt, contact a wildlife rescue service immediately.
   
2. Keep It Warm:
   Place the baby possum in a soft cloth or box to keep it warm. Avoid feeding it unless advised by a professional, as the wrong diet can harm the animal.
   
3. Contact Wildlife Experts:
   Reach out to your local wildlife rescue centre or a licensed wildlife carer. They have the expertise and resources to care for baby possums and prepare them for release into the wild. Searching for possum removal near me can help you locate professionals who handle wildlife rescue and care.

Why Professional Help is Essential

Licensed wildlife carers are trained to:

• Provide the appropriate diet and care needed for the possum’s growth.
• Rehabilitate the possum, ensuring it develops the skills needed to survive in the wild.
• Release the possum in compliance with wildlife laws, giving it the best chance of survival.

Attempting to care for a baby possum without proper knowledge or resources can do more harm than good. It’s always better to leave the task to professionals.

Conclusion

While finding a baby possum may tug at your heartstrings, rearing one requires specialised care and legal permissions. The best course of action is to contact wildlife rescue professionals who can provide the necessary care and rehabilitation.

Possums are wild animals that belong in their natural environment, and professional intervention ensures they receive the best chance at survival. If you encounter a possum-related issue, whether it’s a baby possum or an adult in your home, licensed possum removal services can help you handle the situation responsibly and humanely.

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