Possums are a common problem for many homeowners. They are attracted to the darkness and warmth of an enclosed space, such as the space under a deck.
These animals are about the same size as a house cat, although they can appear much more significant due to their long tails.
Opossums also have gray fur and black eyes.
They typically have 50 sharp teeth than any other mammal in North America.
Possums can cause damage to your property and should be removed as soon as possible.
Luckily, you can do a few things to get rid of possums under your deck.
Remove food sources
First, you must ensure that the area under your deck is free of food and water sources.
Possums are attracted to these things, so by removing them, you will make the area less appealing to them.
If possums are coming onto your property for food, they’ll be less likely to stick around if there’s nothing for them to eat.
Be sure to clean up any fallen fruit from trees or spilled garbage, and consider putting away any pet food left overnight.
Seal any cracks and openings
Next, you need to seal any openings that the possums could use to access the area under your deck.
This includes gaps in the foundation, holes in the siding, and gaps around doors and windows.
Look around your property and ensure that there are no gaps or holes that possums could use to get inside.
They’re good climbers, so pay special attention to areas like rooflines and gutters.
If you find any openings, seal them with wire mesh or hardware cloth.
Traps and poison
Finally, you can use traps or poison baits to catch or kill the possums.
Check with your local wildlife authorities before using these methods, as they may be illegal in your area.
Use light and noise
Possums are nocturnal animals, so the best time to get rid of them is at night.
One way to do this is to shine a bright light into their living area.
This will scare them away and make it difficult for them to return.
You can also try using a loud noise-maker, such as an air horn or a whistle.
The noise will startle the possum and make it difficult to stay in the area.
Keeping your pets safe
If you have pets, another option is to put them in a kennel or room away from the deck so they cannot see or reach the possum.
This will help keep your pets safe from any potential diseases the possum may carry.
Possums can be a nuisance, but there are ways to eliminate them.
By taking away their food and water sources, sealing any openings into the area under your deck, and using traps or baits, you can get rid of possums for good!
Are Possums Dangerous?
Possums are not dangerous to humans. They are timid creatures that usually run away or play dead if they feel threatened.
Although opossums are not typically considered dangerous animals, they can pose a threat to humans and pets if they feel threatened or cornered.
These animals have sharp teeth and may bite if they feel in danger.
Additionally, opossums can carry diseases such as rabies, which can be passed on to humans and pets if they are bitten.
Take note that you need to be careful around an opossum if it is sick or injured since it may bite in self-defence.
Overall, there is no need to worry about opossums being a danger to you or your family.
If you see an opossum on your property, it is best to leave it alone and contact a wildlife control company for assistance in safely removing it from your home.
Signs of a Possum Infestation
There are several signs that you may have a possum infestation on your hands. The first and most obvious sign is the presence of possums themselves.
If you see possums on your property, there is an infestation.
Possum Holes or Burrows
A sure sign of a possum infestation is the presence of their holes or burrows.
Possums typically create their homes in tree cavities, but they will dig burrows in the ground if necessary.
These burrows can be up to two feet deep and four feet long.
If you see any suspicious holes on your property, it is best to contact a professional to determine if possums cause them.
Droppings in your yard or near the entry point to your home
Possums typically defecate near their dens, so if you start finding droppings around your property, it’s a good indicator that you have an infestation.
Possum droppings look similar to dog droppings, but they’re usually smaller and tubular in shape.
If you find them near your home, there’s likely a possum nearby.
Possums also tend to urinate near their dens, so the presence of a strong urine smell may be another sign that you have possums on your property.
Scratching noises in your attic or walls
Possums are nocturnal animals, so if you start hearing unexplained noises coming from your yard at night, there’s a good chance that a possum is a culprit.
Possums also make scratching noises as they move around in your attic or walls.
These animals like to nest in warm, dark places, so your attic is the perfect spot for them.
Be sure to check for signs of damage before investigating further, though, as possums can be aggressive if they feel threatened.
If you hear these noises, it’s best to contact a professional to have the possum removed.
Damage to Gardens or Crops
Another sign of a possum infestation is damage to your gardens or crops.
Possums are opportunistic eaters who will munch on just about anything, including fruits, vegetables, flowers, and grass.
If you notice that your plants are being eaten or trampled, it is likely due to possums.
The Presence of Dead Possums
Unfortunately, another sign of a possum infestation is the presence of dead possums.
Possums are prone to contracting various diseases, spreading to humans and pets through their feces.
If you find a dead possum on your property, it is best to contact a professional for removal as soon as possible.
