Dramatic reduction in Ōpua Forest possum numbers - but cheaper options needed to eradicate pests 10 Jan, 2021 04:00 PM 4 minutes to read Ōpua Forest outside the trapping area, with large numbers of tree skeletons killed by introduced possums. Photo / Geoff Reid Ōpua Forest outside the trapping area, with large numbers of tree skeletons killed by introduced possums. Photo / Geoff Reid Northern Advocate Extensive trapping in part of Ōpua Forest has seen possum numbers slashed, but it's costly and Bay Bush Action is calling for cheaper and more effective approaches for forest protection. Bay Bush Action, which looks after the forest and conducts pest control, has been focussing on a part of the forest for its possum trapping with amazing success.