Opossums are fascinating creatures, often misunderstood due to their unusual appearance and nocturnal habits. Known for their ability to "play dead" as a defense mechanism, these marsupials are among the most adaptable animals in North America. While they play an essential role in controlling insect and rodent populations in the wild, their presence on human property can lead to significant concerns. At Integrated Wildlife Managfement, we specialize in the humane and effective removal of opossums, helping homeowners and businesses maintain safe and pest-free spaces while respecting the role these animals play in the ecosystem.

Opossums are the only marsupials native to the United States, carrying their young in pouches much like kangaroos. They are scavengers by nature, consuming everything from fruits and insects to small animals and food scraps. Their omnivorous diet, combined with their ability to thrive in various environments, makes them adept at surviving in urban, suburban, and rural settings. Unfortunately, this adaptability often brings them into conflict with humans.

Why Opossums Become Pests

Opossums are drawn to human spaces because they offer an abundance of food and shelter. Unsecured garbage cans, pet food left outdoors, and compost piles are irresistible to these scavengers. In addition to foraging for food, they seek shelter in warm, protected areas like attics, crawl spaces, garages, and even under decks or sheds. These spaces mimic their natural habitats, providing safety from predators and a place to nest.

While their presence may initially seem harmless, opossums can quickly become a problem. They are known carriers of parasites like fleas, ticks, and mites, which can spread to pets and humans. Their droppings can contaminate areas and harbor harmful bacteria, creating potential health risks. Moreover, they can be noisy, disrupting the peace of a home with their scratching, thumping, and vocalizations.

Opossums are also opportunistic nesters, which means they can cause damage to insulation, wiring, and other structural components of a building while creating their dens. They have sharp claws and teeth, making it easy for them to tear into materials to gain access to a preferred nesting site. Over time, the damage they cause can become extensive, resulting in costly repairs for property owners.

Risks Caused By Muskrats On Your Property

In addition to the mess and damage they create, their presence can pose direct risks to people and pets. Although opossums are generally non-aggressive, they can become defensive when cornered or threatened. They may hiss, growl, or display their sharp teeth in an attempt to intimidate perceived threats. While rare, they can bite if provoked, increasing the risk of disease transmission.

One of the most concerning diseases associated with these creatures is leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that can spread through contact with their urine. They are also potential carriers of salmonella and can contribute to the spread of parasites like ticks, which are known vectors for Lyme disease. The longer an opossum remains on your property, the greater the potential for health and safety risks to escalate.

Why Professional Opossum Removal Is Essential

Attempting to remove opossums without professional help can be both dangerous and ineffective. These animals are highly resilient and resourceful, often returning to the same location if not properly excluded. Additionally, handling them requires knowledge of their behavior and the use of appropriate tools to ensure both human safety and the humane treatment of the animal.

At Integrated Wildlife Management, we take a comprehensive approach to opossum removal. Our team begins with a detailed inspection of your property to identify entry points, nesting areas, and sources of attraction. Using this information, we develop a customized removal and prevention plan tailored to your needs.

We employ humane trapping methods to safely relocate the animals to appropriate habitats, ensuring compliance with local wildlife regulations. Once the opossums have been removed, we address the root causes of the infestation by sealing entry points and providing guidance on how to eliminate attractants like unsecured food or shelter sites.

Our services also include cleanup and restoration to mitigate any damage caused by the opossums. This includes the removal of droppings, nesting materials, and other debris, as well as sanitization to reduce the risk of disease. By addressing every aspect of the problem, we ensure your property remains opossum-free in the long term.

While these creatures may play an important role in the natural world, but their place is not in your home or business. If you’re dealing with an opossum problem, it’s important to act quickly to prevent further damage and health risks. At Integrated Wildlife Management, we’re dedicated to providing humane, effective solutions that protect your property and the animals involved.

Don’t let opossums disrupt your peace of mind. Contact Integrated Wildlife Management today to schedule an inspection and take the first step toward resolving your wildlife concerns. Let us help you restore safety, cleanliness, and comfort to your property while ensuring these resilient creatures are handled with care and respect. Together, we’ll find a solution that works for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions About Opossums

Q1. Why do opossums choose to live near human properties?

A1. These creatures are scavengers by nature, drawn to areas where food and shelter are readily available. Human properties often provide easy access to pet food, garbage bins, compost piles, and fallen fruit from trees. Additionally, warm, protected spaces like crawl spaces, attics, sheds, and decks mimic the natural dens they would use in the wild. Once they find a reliable food source and shelter, they're likely to settle nearby, creating potential issues for homeowners.

Q2. Are they dangerous to humans or pets?

A2. While generally non-aggressive and more likely to play dead than attack, they can pose risks if they feel cornered or threatened. They may hiss, growl, or show their sharp teeth as a defensive display. These crittters can also carry parasites like fleas and ticks, which can transfer to pets, and their droppings may harbor harmful bacteria. Additionally, they can spread diseases like leptospirosis through their urine. These health concerns make it important to address infestation issues promptly and safely.

Q3. Why should I hire a professional to remove an opossum from my property?

A3. Professional opossum removal ensures the animal is handled safely and humanely while minimizing risks to you, your family, and your property. Opossums are protected in many areas, so removal must comply with local wildlife laws. At Integrated Wildlife Management, our team is trained to identify entry points, safely capture the animal, and prevent future intrusions by securing vulnerable areas of your property. Professionals also address any mess or damage left behind, restoring your space to a clean and safe condition. Attempting to remove an opossum without proper knowledge or tools can lead to unnecessary stress, injuries, or recurring problems.