Recognising the Signs of an Active Possum Nest
If you suspect a possum has made itself at home in your roof or garden, identifying their nest — or drey — is a key step in confirming their presence. Possum nests vary depending on the species, but they all serve one purpose: providing a warm, dry, and safe shelter.
This article will show you what a possum nest looks like, the most common nesting locations in Sydney homes, and how to tell if a nest is active and occupied.
What Is a Possum Drey?
A drey is the term used for a possum nest, particularly those made by Ringtail Possums. These dreys are compact bundles of natural materials built in trees, shrubs, or vines — often 4 to 6 metres above the ground.
Brushtail Possums, on the other hand, tend to use existing cavities like tree hollows or roof spaces, and will modify them using various materials.
Common Nesting Locations in Sydney Homes
Possums adapt their nesting habits to suit their surroundings. In urban areas, they often choose locations that mimic the protection of natural hollows.
Most common nesting sites include:
- Roof cavities – especially in older homes with tile or metal roofs
- Ceiling insulation – used for warmth and comfort
- Sheds or garages – particularly if they’re infrequently used
- Dense shrubs or vines – a favourite for Ringtail Possums
- Underdeck areas – dry, dark, and rarely disturbed
To better understand indoor infestations, visit our guide on Brushtail Possums in Roofs.
What Materials Do Possums Use to Build a Nest?
Possums are resourceful and will use a variety of materials to build or line their nests. These may include:
- Dry leaves and twigs
- Bark strips or paper bark
- Insulation batts from roof cavities
- Shredded paper, cardboard, or fabric
- Clothing or soft materials from clotheslines or sheds
Ringtail Possums usually build spherical dreys by weaving twigs and leaves, while Brushtails often pile material loosely in corners or hollow spaces.
Visual Signs of a Possum Nest
You can identify possum nests by looking for:
- A bundle of leaves or twigs in a tree fork or shrub
- Insulation or shredded materials piled in the roof cavity
- Displaced roof tiles or entry gaps near eaves
- Claw marks or smudges around access points
If the nest is inside your home, it will usually be located in a dark, undisturbed part of the roof, often near a heat source like a vent or light fitting.
How to Tell If a Nest Is Active
Finding a nest doesn’t always mean it’s currently being used. Here’s how to identify an active possum nest:
- Fresh droppings near or inside the nest
- Strong ammonia-like smell from urine marking
- Warm nesting materials (possums are warm-blooded)
- Regular noises at dusk and dawn (scratching or thumping)
- Recent damage to roof lining, ducting, or insulation
If you suspect an active nest in your ceiling, avoid disturbing it. Disturbance may stress the animal, especially if there are joeys inside.
Possum Nesting Behaviour
Possums are creatures of habit. Once they establish a nest in a safe space, they’re likely to return every night. Some key behaviours include:
- Returning to the same nest after foraging
- Seasonal nesting – especially during cooler months
- Possum pairs or families (Ringtail Possums often nest in groups)
Possums often maintain multiple nesting sites within their territory, rotating between them based on safety and access to food. Juveniles typically remain in the drey with their mother until they are fully weaned. If you come across a nest, it’s important to know whether you’re looking at a young or mature animal — learn how to tell the difference in our guide to juvenile vs adult possums.
What to Do If You Find a Nest
If you discover a possum nest on your property:
- Do not disturb or attempt to remove it
- Observe from a distance to determine activity
- Look for entry points into your roof or sheds
- Contact a licensed possum removal professional
Under NSW law, you must not trap, relocate, or disturb a possum nest without a license. Learn more in our guide on Possum Removal Laws in NSW.
How We Can Help
At Possum Ranger, we conduct thorough inspections to locate active nests, identify possum species, and assess entry points. If removal is needed, we handle the process legally and humanely, followed by possum-proofing to prevent return.
Book a free possum nest inspection today or call 0468 166 733 to speak with a licensed possum removal expert in Sydney.
