In the Land Down Under, where the wildlife is as diverse as it is unique, Australians are being called upon to take a simple yet significant step to protect some furry friends. A seemingly simple device, priced at $7.20, is taking the spotlight for its unexpected role in wildlife conservation.
Available at popular hardware stores like Bunnings and Mitre 10, this item is not just a tool to keep leaves from clogging your drainage pipes—it’s also a potential life saver for animals.
The device in question is the Jack 90mm Gutterguard Plastic Downpipe Cover, which is originally designed to cover the opening of drainage pipes to prevent leaves and debris from causing blockages.
However, it has now found a more crucial function, which is to stop animals, particularly brushtail possums, from entering and becoming trapped inside these pipes.
While the likelihood of such an occurrence may seem slim, wildlife rescue service WIRES has shed light on a distressing reality. In the picturesque New South Wales Blue Mountains region, WIRES volunteers have reportedly responded to numerous incidents involving brushtail possums stuck in downpipes.
Tracy Burgess, a dedicated rescuer from Katoomba WIRES, suggests that the cases they know about are just the ‘tip of the iceberg.’ She told Yahoo News that the true number of these incidents could be much higher, as many go unreported or unnoticed until it’s too late.
Possums, which are nocturnal and often traverse rooftops and power lines, can accidentally tumble headfirst into downpipes. Once inside, the smooth surfaces of PVC and metal pipes make it impossible for them to climb out, leaving them trapped and vulnerable.
Unlike pack animals that vocalise when in distress, brushtail possums are solitary by nature and remain ‘very quiet’ to avoid attracting predators, which means they could suffer in silence for days, ultimately dying from dehydration in a harrowing manner.
The urgency of this issue is highlighted by the experiences of residents who have encountered these trapped animals. In one case, a homeowner had to cut through a PVC pipe to free a distressed possum, prompting them to install the protective cap on their pipes.
In another instance, a building manager at a two-storey apartment block in Blaxland had to dismantle their drainage system to rescue a possum.
Fortunately, thanks to the quick actions of rescuers and concerned citizens, many possums have been saved from a grim fate. However, the solution to prevent such occurrences could be simple and cost-effective: installing the $7.20 downpipe covers on drainage pipes. This small investment can make a significant difference in protecting our wildlife and preventing the unnecessary suffering of these creatures.
By fitting these inexpensive devices to your homes, you not only safeguard your plumbing but also contribute to the preservation of the country’s native animals. It’s a small step with a big impact, and it’s something that can be easily done to help ensure that the unique and wonderful creatures of Australia continue to thrive.
Have you encountered possums in your property or do you have any hacks that could protect the wildlife? Share your experiences with the YourLifeChoices community in the comments below.
Also read: How a $10 hack is helping Australians save possums
