How To Get Rid Of Possums In Your House

Ever heard a strange scratching or rustling in your attic in the middle of the night, only to find droppings that definitely aren't from mice? You might have a possum problem! These nocturnal marsupials, while generally harmless outdoors, can become quite a nuisance (and health hazard) when they decide to take up residence inside your home. They can tear insulation, damage electrical wiring, and leave behind unpleasant odors. Removing them safely and effectively is crucial for protecting your property and the well-being of your family (and the possum itself!).

Dealing with a possum infestation can be stressful and challenging, but it doesn't have to be a losing battle. Understanding their behavior, knowing the right removal techniques, and implementing preventative measures are all key to regaining control of your home. This guide will provide you with a step-by-step approach to identifying a possum presence, safely evicting them, and preventing future invasions. Ignoring the problem can lead to significant damage and health risks, so acting quickly and decisively is essential.

What are the best methods for safely removing a possum, and how can I prevent them from returning?

How can I safely trap a possum inside my house?

The safest and most humane way to trap a possum inside your house is to use a live trap baited with enticing food like fruit (apples, bananas, grapes), vegetables, or pet food. Place the trap in an area where you've seen the possum frequent, preferably along a wall or in a corner. Once trapped, it's crucial to handle the possum with care, minimizing stress to the animal, and relocate it to a suitable habitat far from your home, at least 5-10 miles away, ensuring it cannot easily return.

Choosing the right live trap is essential. Opt for a trap specifically designed for animals like raccoons or opossums, ensuring it's large enough to comfortably accommodate the animal without causing injury. Camouflage the trap slightly by covering the bottom with leaves or dirt to make it less suspicious. Regularly check the trap, especially in extreme weather conditions, to avoid unnecessary suffering for the possum. Never leave a trapped animal unattended for extended periods.

After trapping the possum, wear thick gloves when handling the trap to protect yourself from scratches or bites, even though possums are generally not aggressive. Approach the trap calmly and quietly. When relocating the possum, choose a wooded area near a water source, away from residential areas and roads. Open the trap door carefully, allowing the possum to exit on its own. Avoid direct contact with the animal. Remember to check local ordinances regarding wildlife relocation as permits may be required in some areas.

What are some humane ways to deter possums from entering my home?

The most effective and humane ways to deter possums from entering your home involve removing attractants, sealing entry points, and using deterrents like motion-activated lights or sprinklers. Possums are generally looking for food, water, and shelter, so addressing these needs elsewhere will discourage them from settling on your property or venturing inside.

To elaborate, start by securing your garbage cans with tight-fitting lids, bringing pet food indoors at night, and cleaning up any fallen fruit or spilled birdseed in your yard. Trim overgrown bushes and trees near your house, as these can provide easy access to roofs and windows. Inspect your home’s exterior for any potential entry points, such as holes in siding, gaps around pipes, or openings in the foundation. Seal these with durable materials like caulk, metal flashing, or hardware cloth. Once you've addressed potential access points and food sources, consider using deterrents. Motion-activated sprinklers or lights can startle possums and encourage them to leave your property. You can also spread unpleasant but harmless odors around your yard, such as vinegar or ammonia-soaked rags (placed in areas inaccessible to pets and children). Remember that possums are nocturnal creatures and usually avoid well-lit areas, so strategically placed outdoor lighting can be an effective deterrent. It's crucial to avoid trapping and relocating possums, as this can be stressful for the animal and often leads to them being unable to find suitable food and shelter in unfamiliar environments. Furthermore, relocation can simply open up the territory for another possum to move in. Focusing on prevention and making your property less attractive is the most sustainable and humane solution.

What smells or substances repel possums effectively?

Possums are deterred by a variety of strong smells and tastes. Ammonia, garlic, mothballs, and strong spices like cayenne pepper are commonly used as repellents. Some people also report success with commercial possum repellent sprays which often contain similar ingredients.

While the above solutions can offer some relief, it is crucial to understand that possums are persistent creatures. They adapt quickly, especially if a reliable food source or safe haven is present. Simply applying a repellent might offer temporary respite, but it won't solve the underlying problem that is attracting them to your property. For long-term solutions, focus on removing food sources (like accessible pet food or fallen fruit) and sealing entry points into your house. Another effective method is using bright lights or noise. Possums are nocturnal animals and sensitive to light, so shining a bright light in areas they frequent can deter them. Similarly, playing loud music or using ultrasonic devices can disrupt their habitat and make them less likely to stick around. Remember to use these methods responsibly and consider the potential impact on your neighbors. Consider this list of common repellents:

How do I identify and seal entry points possums are using?

Identifying and sealing entry points is crucial to permanently getting rid of possums in your house. Start by thoroughly inspecting your home's exterior and interior, looking for gaps, holes, or weak spots. Common entry points include damaged roof tiles, open chimneys, uncapped vents, gaps around pipes, and openings under decks or porches. Once identified, seal these openings with durable materials like sheet metal, hardware cloth, expanding foam, or concrete, depending on the size and location of the entry point.

Possums are surprisingly adept at squeezing through small spaces, so be meticulous in your search. Pay particular attention to areas where different building materials meet, as these are often weak points. Don't forget to check around windows and doors for gaps in the framing or damaged weather stripping. Inside your attic or under the house, look for trails of droppings or nesting materials, as these can lead you to the entry point the possum is actively using. Sealing the entry points effectively involves more than just plugging a hole. Ensure the repair is durable and resistant to chewing. For instance, expanding foam can be easily gnawed through, so it's best used in conjunction with a more robust barrier like hardware cloth or sheet metal. If the entry point is a larger opening, consider using a one-way exclusion door to allow the possum to leave but prevent it from re-entering before permanently sealing the opening. Clean and disinfect the area around the entry point after sealing to remove scent trails that could attract other possums.

Is it safe to handle possum droppings myself, and how should I clean them?

It's generally not safe to handle possum droppings directly, as they can contain bacteria, parasites, and diseases harmful to humans. Proper cleaning and disinfection are essential to minimize health risks.

Possum droppings can carry diseases like leptospirosis, salmonellosis, and coccidiosis, which can be transmitted through contact with contaminated feces or through inhaling airborne particles. Because of these health risks, it’s crucial to take precautions when cleaning up possum droppings. Always wear protective gear, including gloves (disposable are best), a face mask or respirator (ideally N95 or higher), and eye protection. Avoid direct contact with the droppings. When cleaning, do not sweep or vacuum the droppings, as this can aerosolize the harmful particles and increase the risk of inhalation. Instead, gently spray the droppings with a disinfectant solution (a 10% bleach solution is commonly recommended – 1 part bleach to 9 parts water) to dampen them. Let the solution sit for at least 10 minutes to kill any pathogens. Carefully pick up the disinfected droppings with paper towels or a similar disposable material and place them in a sealed plastic bag. Dispose of the bag in an outdoor trash can with a secure lid. After removing the droppings, thoroughly disinfect the entire area with the bleach solution and allow it to air dry. Finally, remove your protective gear carefully, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, and discard the disposable gear responsibly.

Will pest control services guarantee possum removal?

Whether a pest control service guarantees possum removal depends on the specific company and the nature of the infestation. Some companies offer guarantees that they will remove the possum and prevent its immediate return, while others may only guarantee their workmanship in sealing entry points or setting traps. It's crucial to discuss the terms and conditions of any guarantee before hiring a pest control service.

Guarantees related to possum removal can vary significantly. A comprehensive guarantee might cover not only the physical removal of the possum but also the sealing of entry points to prevent future infestations. Some companies may offer a limited time warranty, such as 30 days, while others might offer longer periods. Be sure to clarify the specific actions covered by the guarantee – does it include the removal of dead animals, cleaning and sanitization of affected areas, and/or repairs to damaged structures? It’s always wise to obtain quotes and compare services from multiple pest control companies. Inquire about their methods for possum removal, their experience with wildlife control, and their guarantee policies. Don't hesitate to ask specific questions, such as "What happens if the possum returns after treatment?" or "What is the cost if further intervention is needed?" Reputable companies will be transparent about their processes and willing to provide detailed information regarding their guarantees.

What are the legal considerations for relocating a trapped possum?

Relocating a trapped possum is often illegal and generally discouraged by wildlife authorities. Laws vary by state/territory and even locally, but generally prohibit releasing wildlife onto public or private land without permission. Furthermore, even if legal, relocating possums is often detrimental to both the relocated animal, which may struggle to find food and shelter in unfamiliar territory, and the existing possum population in the release area, which may be displaced or experience increased competition for resources.

Laws protecting wildlife exist for several reasons. Primarily, they aim to prevent the spread of disease. Relocating a possum could introduce a new disease into an area, potentially harming the native animal population. Secondly, moving a possum can disrupt the local ecosystem. Possums have established territories, and introducing a new animal disrupts the balance. This can lead to fighting, competition for resources, and even the death of the relocated animal or existing residents. The animal's chances of survival also drop significantly because they are unfamiliar with the location and are more vulnerable to predators. Before trapping any possum, research your local regulations. Your local animal control or wildlife agency will be able to provide up-to-date information on the legality of trapping and relocation, as well as permitted methods for humane removal. Instead of relocation, the best approach is often to make your property less attractive to possums in the first place, using exclusion techniques to prevent them from entering your home. If you are consistently finding possums indoors, consulting with a licensed wildlife removal specialist is recommended.

And that's it! Getting rid of possums can be a bit of a challenge, but with a little patience and these tips, you should be able to reclaim your home. Thanks for reading, and we hope these suggestions help you create a possum-free environment. Feel free to stop by again if you have any other pesky critter problems – we're always adding new advice!