Possums, often referred to as opossums in North America, are unique creatures with their nocturnal habits and ability to adapt to urban environments. While these animals play an important role in the ecosystem by controlling insect and rodent populations, they can sometimes become unwelcome guests in your yard, attic, or under your home. If you find yourself in a situation where possums have invaded your space, it’s essential to approach the removal process safely and humanely. Here’s everything you need to know about possum removal and how to handle it responsibly.
Understanding the Possum’s Behavior and Habitat
Possums are generally non-aggressive animals. They’re nocturnal, which means they are most active at night, and they’re known for playing dead (“playing possum”) when they feel threatened. They often seek shelter in attics, basements, garages, or under porches and homes, looking for a warm, dry, and safe place to nest. While possums are mostly harmless to humans, they can cause disturbances by knocking over garbage cans, raiding gardens, and making a mess around your home.
Why Remove Possums?
Though possums aren’t inherently dangerous, having one living in or around your home can present a few issues:
- Noise: Possums can make considerable noise when they scurry about, especially in attics or walls.
- Property damage: They may rip open insulation, chew through wiring, or damage gardens.
- Health risks: Possums can carry fleas, ticks, and parasites that can spread diseases.
- Garbage and compost issues: Possums will often raid trash bins and compost piles, leaving a mess behind.
Steps to Safely and Humanely Remove Possums
- Identify the Problem
Before taking any action, you need to confirm that you’re dealing with a possum. Look for signs like droppings, footprints, disturbed garbage, or scratching possum removal cost melbourne at night. You may also notice damage to food storage or gardens. If you see a possum during the day, it might be sick or injured, as they are typically nocturnal.
- Eliminate Attractants
Possums are often drawn to food sources or easy shelter. To make your home less attractive, do the following:
- Secure garbage bins with lids or heavy weights.
- Remove any pet food left outside.
- Clean up fallen fruit or other potential food sources from the yard.
- Close off compost bins and secure them.
- Seal any gaps or openings around your home’s foundation, vents, and attic spaces.
- Use Possum Repellents
There are natural and chemical repellents available that can deter possums from certain areas. Some homeowners use:
- Mothballs: Placing mothballs near entry points can drive possums away due to the strong odor.
- Ammonia-soaked rags: The scent of ammonia mimics the smell of predators’ urine and can be a deterrent.
- Commercial possum repellents: These often come in sprays and granules and can be applied around the yard or attic.
- Install Fencing and Barriers
For garden protection or to prevent access to crawl spaces, install fencing around vulnerable areas. Mesh fencing around gardens, with the bottom buried several inches underground, can prevent possums from digging under it. Similarly, seal off access points like broken vents or cracks around the home.
- Humane Trapping
If a possum has already settled in your home, you may need to trap it for removal. Humane traps are designed to capture the possum without harming it. Place the trap near the possum’s suspected entrance or food source and bait it with fruits, vegetables, or pet food. Once trapped, you must release the possum at least five miles away from your home in a wooded area or field.
Note: Before trapping, check your local laws, as possum trapping and relocation may be regulated.
- Professional Possum Removal Services
If trapping and deterring possums seem too difficult or you’re dealing with multiple animals, contacting a professional wildlife removal service is a good idea. Licensed professionals can safely remove the possum and take steps to ensure they don’t return.
Prevention: How to Keep Possums Away for Good
Once the possum is gone, follow these steps to prevent future invasions:
- Seal off entry points: Close any gaps in the foundation, roof, or walls of your home. Use mesh wire to cover vents and other openings.
- Maintain the yard: Keep your yard free of brush piles, fallen trees, and excess vegetation, which can provide shelter.
- Use motion-activated lights or sprinklers: These can startle possums and discourage them from returning to your property.
- Regularly inspect your home: Check for signs of possums or other animals frequently so that you can address issues before they become bigger problems.
Final Thoughts
Possum removal doesn’t have to be a stressful or harmful process. By taking a humane approach and using proper deterrents, traps, or professional help, you can safely remove possums and protect your home from future invasions. Remember that possums are beneficial to the environment and should be relocated safely whenever possible.
