Possums in New Zealand: Why They’re a Pest & How to Control Them

Possums were introduced for the fur trade in the 19th century, but their population quickly grew into the millions, creating one of NZ’s largest ecological threats. They thrive in forests, farmland edges and even gardens, putting pressure on native ecosystems and agricultural industries.

What Makes Possums a Pest?

1. Severe Damage to Native Forests

Possums consume massive amounts of vegetation every night  - up to 20,000 tonnes across NZ - eating leaves, buds, fruits and flowers from native species such as rātā, kamahi and pōhutukawa.

Their browsing can completely defoliate and kill large numbers of native trees, altering entire forest ecosystems.

2. Threat to Native Birds and Wildlife

Possums:

• Eat birds, chicks and eggs, including threatened species
• Compete with birds like kererū and tūī for nectar and fruit
• Occupy tree hollows needed by saddlebacks, kākāriki and other native birds
  

There is even documented evidence of possums attacking kea nests.

3. Serious Risk to Farmers

Possums are the main wildlife carriers of bovine TB, spreading infection to cattle and deer across 38% of NZ’s vector risk regions.

Their activity also damages:

• Orchard crops
• Pasture
• Pine plantations
• Erosion‑control plantings
• Rural infrastructure including powerlines
  

Best Practices for Possum Control

Trapping remains the most consistent and humane control method for rural and urban areas.

Key trapping recommendations:

• Place traps along bush lines, ridges, fence lines and near food sources
• Use robust, humane traps built for NZ conditions
• Increase trap frequency during autumn when possum activity spikes
  
• Check live capture traps daily

Protecting New Zealands Unique Ecosystym with Pestgard Traps

Possums harm forests, wildlife and rural industries, making ongoing control essential. With reliable, humane trapping tools like Pestgard’s possum traps, every landowner can help protect New Zealand’s natural and agricultural environments.