Effective Ways to Get Rid of Possums in Your Home or Yard

Possums may look cute, but they can become a big nuisance if they invade your home or yard. They are known for their annoying habits, such as rummaging through trash cans, eating garden plants, and causing damages to your attic insulation. If you’re dealing with a pesky possum problem, there are several effective ways to get rid of them.

1. Identify the Possums’ Entry Points

1. Take a walk around your home or yard and look for any potential entry points where possums may be getting in. These could be holes, gaps, or cracks in your walls or roof.
2. Once you identify the entry points, seal them off with caulk or wire mesh to prevent possums from entering.

2. Use Deterrents to Repel Possums

1. Possums are repelled by strong smells such as mothballs, ammonia, or vinegar.
2. Place mothballs or rags soaked in ammonia or vinegar in areas where possums are likely to enter. Make sure to keep these items away from pets and children.
3. You can also use motion-activated sprinklers to scare possums away from your yard.

3. Trap and Relocate Possums

1. Trapping possums is another effective way to get rid of them.
2. Place a bait, such as fruits or vegetables, inside a humane live trap and set it in an area where possums are likely to visit. Once caught, relocate the possum at least 10 miles away from your home.
3. Make sure to check the trap regularly and release any non-target animals, such as cats or squirrels.

4. Use Repellents to Protect Your Garden Plants

1. Possums can wreak havoc on your garden plants by eating fruits and vegetables.
2. Use a repellent, such as hot pepper spray or predator urine, to protect your garden plants from possums.
3. Apply the repellent regularly and after heavy rain to ensure its effectiveness.

5. Keep Your Yard Clean and Free of Food Sources

1. Possums are attracted to food sources, such as pet food, bird feeders, and trash cans.
2. Keep your yard clean and tidy, and secure your trash cans and bird feeders.
3. Bring in pet food bowls at night to avoid attracting possums.

6. Call a Professional Wildlife Removal Service

1. If you’re dealing with a severe possum infestation or if the possums have caused damages to your home, it’s best to call a professional wildlife removal service.
2. They have the experience and equipment necessary to safely and effectively remove possums from your property.
3. Make sure to choose a licensed and insured wildlife removal service to ensure the safety of you and the possums.

7. Table: Comparison of Possum Removal Methods

Method	Effectiveness	Cost	Safety
Sealing Entry Points	High	Low	Safe
Using Deterrents	Medium	Low	Safe
Trapping and Relocation	High	Medium	Safe
Using Repellents	Medium	Medium	Safe with proper handling
Keeping Your Yard Clean	Low	Low	Safe
Calling a Professional Wildlife Removal Service	High	High	Safe with licensed professionals

8. FAQ

Q1. Are Possums Dangerous or Carry Diseases?

Possums are generally not dangerous and do not carry diseases unless they are infected with a parasite called EPM (equine protozoal myeloencephalitis), which can be transmitted to horses. However, possums can become aggressive if they feel threatened or cornered.

Q2. Are Possums Protected by Law?

Possums are protected by law in some states, such as California and Virginia, where it’s illegal to trap or harm them without a permit. Make sure to check the regulations in your area before taking any possum removal measures.

Q3. How Can I Tell If Possums Are Living in My Attic?

You can tell if possums are living in your attic by their sounds, such as scratching, thumping, or gnawing. You may also notice droppings or urine stains in your attic. If you suspect possums are living in your attic, it’s best to call a professional wildlife removal service to safely remove them and repair any damages they may have caused.

Q4. Can Possums Climb Fences?

Possums are skilled climbers and can easily climb fences and trees. To make your yard possum-proof, make sure to install fences at least 6 feet tall and add a barrier, such as a layer of wire mesh, on top to prevent possums from climbing over it.

Q5. How Long Do Possums Live?

Possums have a lifespan of up to 4 years in the wild, but they can live longer in captivity. Female possums can give birth to up to 20 babies in a year.

9. Conclusion

Dealing with a possum invasion can be stressful, but with the right possum removal methods, you can get rid of them for good. Remember to identify the entry points, use deterrents, trap and relocate, use repellents, keep your yard clean, and call a professional wildlife removal service if necessary. By following these tips, you can enjoy a possum-free home and yard.