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The designs below show the boxes without any 'baffles' as it is easier to see the design without them. For details of how to add the baffles, which give greater
security and protection, click
HERE. In all cases, a few handfuls of dead leaves can provide some comfort and insulation. There are slightly different sizes for different types of possums. There
are three designs below. The first is the Common
Brushtail Possum Box.
 | The top edge of the roof should be weather sealed with a folded strip of sheet metal, aluminium angle or a rubber flap. (An old rubber inner tube is OK) |
| To stop rain getting in, eaves should overhang by 110mm to 120mm. The entry hole (which doesn't have to be round) should be located directly under it and be between 110mm to 120mm wide. A sturdy length of branch screwed firmly to the front of the box is an optional extra that will help the possum enter and exit more easily. Drill four holes (approx 5 mm) through the floor near each corner, to allow any water that might get in to drain out. |
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Ringtail Possum Box Is basically the same design as the brush tail box. It is slightly narrower and the entrance hole is only 70mm wide. (We are reconsidering this, and now suggest 80mm) Remember it can be helpful to construct the box so that the top can be opened up for inspection. This picture does not show the branch, as above, so that we can remind you to include some mesh on the inside under the entry hole, to allow juvenile possums to climb up to the entry. This 'ladder' may be included in all possum box constructions. However, we still suggest adding the branch to help possums 'get a grip' on their way in. |
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Sugar Glider Box Although the sugar glider is one of the smaller possums, its nestbox is quite large. However the entry hole (which would probably be a little higher up than this diagram illustrates) is only 40 mm wide. Once again, we suggest adding a baffle, a branch fastened to the exterior, and a mesh, or other device that will allow juvenile gliders to climb up to the entrance hole. | |
