Possums. Those nocturnal creatures with big eyes and even bigger appetites. While they might seem harmless, these furry critters can quickly become a nuisance if they decide your home is their new favorite buffet. They love to rummage through your trash, feast on your garden goodies, and even take up residence in your attic or under your deck.
But don’t worry! This guide will show you how to get rid of possums humanely and effectively. We’ll cover everything from understanding their habits to using repellents, traps, and exclusion methods to keep them away for good. Let’s get started!
Understanding Possum Behavior: Why Are They Here?
Before we learn how to get rid of possums, it’s important to understand why they’re attracted to your property in the first place. Possums are opportunistic feeders, which means they’ll eat just about anything they can find. This includes:
- Food scraps: Your garbage cans are like an all-you-can-eat buffet for possums.
- Pet food: Leaving pet food outside overnight is a surefire way to attract these critters.
- Fallen fruit: If you have fruit trees in your yard, the fallen fruit can be a tasty treat for possums.
- Insects: Possums are natural pest control, feeding on insects and slugs.
- Shelter: Possums look for safe and cozy places to nest, such as attics, sheds, and under decks.
Possum Habits and Characteristics
Knowing a bit about possum behavior can help you in your mission to get rid of them. Here are some key facts:
- Nocturnal: Possums are most active at night, which is when they do most of their foraging.
- Good climbers: They have sharp claws that allow them to easily climb trees and fences.
- “Playing possum”: When threatened, possums will often play dead. This is an involuntary defense mechanism, not a conscious act.
How to Get Rid of Possums Humanely
Now that you know why possums are attracted to your yard, let’s look at some humane and effective ways to get rid of them.
Make Your Yard Less Appealing
The first step in getting rid of possums is to make your property less attractive to them. Here’s how:
- Secure your garbage: Use tightly sealed garbage cans and store them in a shed or garage whenever possible.
- Feed pets indoors: Don’t leave pet food outside, especially overnight.
- Clean up fallen fruit: Regularly pick up fallen fruit from your yard.
- Trim trees and shrubs: This eliminates easy access to your roof and attic.
- Block access points: Seal any holes or cracks in your home’s foundation, walls, and roof.
Use Possum Repellents
Possum repellents can be an effective way to deter these animals from your property. There are two main types of repellents:
- Odor repellents: These work by emitting a scent that possums find unpleasant, such as ammonia, garlic, or predator urine (fox or coyote).
- Taste repellents: These make the plants or areas they are applied to taste bad, discouraging possums from eating them.
Important Note: While commercial repellents are available, their effectiveness can vary. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and reapply repellents after rain.
| Type of Repellent | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Odor Repellent | Easy to use, can cover a large area | May need frequent reapplication, smell may be unpleasant to humans |
| Taste Repellent | Targets specific plants or areas, longer lasting | May not deter possums from other food sources |
Trapping and Relocating Possums
Trapping can be a successful method for removing possums, but it’s important to do it humanely and legally. Here are some guidelines:
- Use a live trap: Choose a trap that is large enough for a possum but small enough to prevent other animals from getting caught.
- Bait the trap: Use strong-smelling foods like fruit, peanut butter, or canned cat food.
- Check the trap frequently: Check the trap at least twice a day to avoid causing the animal undue stress.
- Relocate the possum: Once you’ve caught a possum, relocate it to a suitable location, at least 5 miles away from your property. Check your local laws regarding trapping and relocating wildlife.
Important Note: Always wear gloves when handling a trap and avoid direct contact with the possum.
Exclusion: Keep Possums Out!
Exclusion is the most effective long-term solution for how to get rid of possums. It involves physically preventing possums from accessing your property. This includes:
- Fencing: Install a fence around your yard that is at least 4 feet high and buried 12 inches underground.
- Hardware cloth: Use hardware cloth to block access to under decks, sheds, and other potential den sites.
- Chimney caps: Install chimney caps to prevent possums from entering your home through the chimney.
| Exclusion Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Fencing | Creates a physical barrier around your property |
| Hardware Cloth | Blocks access to small openings and spaces |
| Chimney Caps | Prevents entry through the chimney |
| Sealing Entry Points | Close up any holes or cracks in your home |
How to Get Rid of Possums Under Your House or Deck
Possums love to find shelter in dark, secluded spaces, making the area under your house or deck a prime target. To get rid of possums in these areas:
- Clean up: Remove any debris or clutter that might provide a hiding place.
- Install a barrier: Use hardware cloth to seal off the area.
- Use motion-activated sprinklers: These will startle possums and discourage them from returning.
- Place ammonia-soaked rags: The strong smell of ammonia can repel possums.
Preventing Possums from Returning
Once you’ve successfully gotten rid of possums, you’ll want to take steps to prevent them from coming back. Here are some preventative measures:
- Maintain a clean yard: Regularly clean up fallen fruit, pet food, and garbage.
- Keep your property secure: Repair any damage to fences or buildings.
- Continue using repellents: Periodically apply repellents, especially after rain.
- Monitor for activity: Keep an eye out for any signs of possum activity, such as droppings or tracks.
Summary: Taking Back Your Yard from Possums
Possums can be a real headache for homeowners, but with the right approach, you can successfully get rid of them and keep them away. Remember to focus on humane methods like exclusion, repellents, and proper trapping techniques. By understanding their behavior and taking preventative measures, you can create a possum-free environment and enjoy your yard to the fullest.
FAQs: Your Possum Questions Answered
What are the signs of a possum infestation?
Common signs include droppings, tracks, noises in the attic or under the house, damaged gardens, and overturned garbage cans.
Are possums dangerous?
Possums are generally not aggressive but can carry diseases like leptospirosis. It’s best to avoid direct contact and always wear gloves when handling traps or cleaning up droppings.
What should I do if I find a baby possum?
Baby possums (joeys) are often found clinging to their mother’s back. If you find a joey alone, it’s best to contact a local wildlife rehabilitator for assistance.
Is it legal to kill possums?
Laws regarding possums vary by location. In many areas, it is illegal to kill possums without a permit. Always check your local laws and regulations.
What is the best way to get rid of possums permanently?
Exclusion is the most effective long-term solution for getting rid of possums. This means sealing up any entry points to your home and property, making it impossible for them to gain access.