From the information gathered I allocated myself a further twenty minutes to analyse and define the core problem further.
I was able use the information to generate ideas on how to solve the problem.
The possum is coming into the roof of my house because it is looking for somewhere safe to rest during the day. The roof is a dark space and is away from day time predators. I need to create a safe place for at least two possums to live in, this could be achieved by designing and building a nesting box. This would then encourage the possum to leave my roof and move into the nesting box.
Understanding the needs of the possum helped to inform important aspects of the necessary design elements such as functions and features.
I began to visualise design ideas, and more questions were generated.
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Questions and answers that informed and guided my design decisions:
Why is the possum coming into the roof?
There is nowhere safe outside for it to live.
What can I do to help?
Build a possum nesting box that provides a safe home with enough room for 2 possums to live in.
What does the possum need to feel safe?
A dark place to sleep away from daytime predators.
Although building a possum box will create a safe place for the possum to live, I need to make sure that I also stop the possum from coming into the roof.
Further research suggested to:
Wait until dusk and see where the possum is leaving the roof space
Safely cover entry hole or install a one way door, just incase there is still a possum in the roof (Good Living, 2019).
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Figure 5. Possum with apple. From “ Wildlife QLD,” by Wildlife QLD Snake Cather Brisbane & Bird Management., 2019c (http://www.wildlifeqld.com.au/possums/common-brushtail-possum.html)
Design ePortfolio 