How to Build a Possum House

There are several sources from which you can purchase ready-made possum houses; however, constructing one on your own ensures it is customized and of the correct size for the possums in your region. Plans, diagrams and instructions for building a possum box are available, and supplies can be easily obtained from local hardware and home improvement stores.

How to Build a Possum House

1. Rest the sheet of plywood on a flat surface in order to mark out the sides, top and bottom of the nesting box with your pencil and ruler. Trace out and cut two rectangular side panels measuring 12 inches by 18 inches.



2. Trace a slant at the top of the two side panels by angling your ruler from the top left corner, across the middle of the vertical rectangular to the other side approximately 3 inches down. Cut off the corner you have created. This will guarantee that the possum house’s top leans forward to allow runoff.



3. Measure and cut the back, front and bottom panels of the possum box according to the following measurements.

4. Back: 10 inches by 18 inches Front: 10 inches by 15 inches Bottom: 10 inches by 12 inches



5. Place the four side panels alongside the bottom panel and screw into place to create a standing, rectangular box.



6. Drill 4 small holes, at least ½ an inch across, in the four corners of the box’s bottom to allow for drainage.

7. Fold a strip of lightweight sheet metal 10 inches long. When placed across the gap between the box’s top and back panels, it will prevent precipitation from entering.



8. Attach the box’s lid using two hinges. Place the hinges over the folded strip of sheet metal and secure to the top and back panels using screws. Be sure the sheet metal strip is flexible enough to allow for your opening and closing of the hinged lid.



9. Fasten a sheet of mesh wire to the front of the nesting box using screws in the four corners. The mesh will serve as a ladder so the possums and climb in and out of the nesting box with ease.



10. Bore a hole into the front panel of the box, above the wire mesh. It should measure at least 5 inches across. Familiarize yourself with the size of possums in your area before deciding on the size of the hole to ensure you drill one large enough to accommodate.