Instant Possum Removal: A Quick Guide to Dealing with Possums Humanely

Possums, while generally harmless, can be a nuisance when they invade your property. These nocturnal marsupials are known for rummaging through trash, nesting in attics, and possum removal berwick damage to gardens. While they play a beneficial role in the ecosystem by controlling insect and rodent populations, their presence in or around your home may require action.

This guide covers humane, instant possum removal strategies, as well as preventive measures to keep them from returning.

Signs of a Possum Infestation

Before jumping to removal, it’s important to know the signs that possums are on your property:

1. Noises in the Attic or Walls: Possums are nocturnal, so you may hear scratching, thumping, or rustling at night if they’ve made your attic their home.
2. Droppings: Possum droppings are about the size of cat droppings but slightly more rounded.
3. Damaged Gardens: If plants are being trampled or fruit is being eaten, a possum may be the culprit.
4. Trash Scattering: Possums are scavengers and will often raid trash cans or compost bins in search of food.

Humane Possum Removal Methods

1. Live Traps

One of the most effective and humane ways to remove a possum is to trap it using a live cage trap.

• How to Set Up:

  • Purchase a live trap large enough for possums.
  • Bait the trap with food possums like, such as fruit, bread, or pet food.
  • Place the trap in areas where you’ve noticed possum activity, such as near the attic or garden.
  • Once the possum is caught, you can release it safely at least 5-10 miles away from your home (depending on local regulations).

• Important Considerations: Always check local laws regarding trapping and relocating wildlife. Some areas have restrictions or guidelines for humane wildlife relocation.

2. Block Entry Points

If you’ve discovered a possum in your attic or under your porch, the first step is to block its access points to prevent future reentry.

• Steps:
  • Identify any gaps, holes, or openings in your home’s exterior where possums may be entering.
  • Seal these openings with materials like steel mesh, boards, or chicken wire.
  • Install chimney caps and cover vents with fine mesh to prevent possums from climbing into these spaces.

Before sealing, make sure no possums (or babies) are trapped inside.

3. Bright Lights and Loud Noises

Possums are nocturnal and prefer dark, quiet places. To make your property less attractive to them:

• Bright Lights: Use motion-activated floodlights near attics, garages, or other areas where possums are nesting.
• Noises: Playing a radio or setting up an ultrasonic pest deterrent can make the area uncomfortable for possums, encouraging them to leave.

4. Natural Repellents

Natural deterrents can help repel possums from gardens, attics, and other areas of your home:

• Smells They Dislike:

  • Garlic, chili powder, and ammonia-soaked rags placed around entry points can deter possums.
  • Commercial repellents are also available that use the scent of predator urine to keep possums away.

• Pet Hair: Spreading dog or cat hair around the garden or other areas of activity can discourage possums from coming near, as they’ll think a predator is nearby.

5. Secure Garbage and Food Sources

Possums are attracted to easily accessible food sources like garbage, pet food, or compost. Removing these temptations will reduce the likelihood of them sticking around.

• Steps:
  • Store trash in secure, lidded bins or tie them tightly in garbage bags.
  • Bring pet food and bird feeders indoors at night.
  • Keep compost bins tightly sealed.

When to Call a Professional

If possums have invaded hard-to-reach areas (like attics or crawl spaces) or you’re dealing with a recurring problem, it may be time to call a wildlife removal expert. Professional wildlife control services can safely remove the possum and help you seal entry points.

Preventing Possum Infestations

Once you’ve removed the possum, it’s important to take steps to prevent them from coming back:

1. Secure Entry Points: As mentioned earlier, sealing off any gaps or holes is crucial.
2. Clean Up Outdoor Areas: Don’t leave pet food outside, secure garbage cans, and trim back tree branches that could give possums access to your roof.
3. Garden Protection: Install fencing around gardens or use mesh to cover fruit trees and vegetable patches.
4. Chimney and Vent Protection: Install caps on chimneys and cover any open vents with fine mesh to prevent possums from getting inside.

Legal Considerations

Before removing or relocating a possum, check your local wildlife laws. Some areas have specific rules regarding the trapping and relocation of wildlife. In certain places, possums are protected, and removal methods must comply with humane practices.

Conclusion

Possum removal doesn’t have to be difficult or harmful. With the right traps, preventive measures, and humane methods, you can quickly and safely remove possums from your property. Always remember to check local regulations, and when in doubt, consult a professional wildlife control expert to handle the situation.