Opossums

Virginia Opossum
© Ashley Kinney

Opossums are cat-sized marsupials. Like the kangaroo, their young are born as embryos and make their way to a pouch on the stomach where they continue to develop. When they are four or five inches long, they start leaving the pouch to ride on their mother’s back. When they have reached seven to eight inches body length, they leave the parent to make their own way in the world.

Opossums are nocturnal, roaming at night, and looking for a dark, secluded place to sleep during the daylight hours. They are scavengers and eat anything. Since opossums are quiet and rarely cause damage, most people are unaware that they are around. Like all scavengers they sometimes predate on smaller mammals, birds or reptiles. Pet food left out at night often attracts them to our yards. They benefit us by eating mice, rats, snails, slugs and insects.

How Can I Prevent Inviting a Problem with Opossums?

• Pick up pet food at night
• Cover garbage cans tightly Keep fallen fruit picked up
• Close off under decks, sheds, etc.
• Make sure foundation vents are secure
• Do not leave garage or sheds open at night

Ideas for Handling Opossum Troubles

• In the Attic or Under the House: Close off the entrance when the animal is out at night. To be sure he is out put paper loosely in the entry hole and watch for it to be pushed outward, or attach a one-way door flap. The animal may leave, but not re-enter. Be sure no young are left behind.
• In the Garage: Open the door and close it after dark when the opossum has left. Do not leave pet food down at night which might attract an opossum. Sprinkle flour around the door and check for tracks to be sure he has gone.
• In the Yard: Put 24″ wide sheet metal around fruit tree trunks to discourage climbing. Bird netting can be purchased at hardware and garden departments to cover fruit and vegetable gardens.
• In the Garbage Can: Tip the can on its side. The oppossum will leave when he feels it is safe. Secure the can once the opossum vacates.
• Trapped in Window Well or Pit: Place a board or large pipe into the area so he has something to help him climb out. Cover such areas to prevent another occurrence.
• Protecting Poultry and Rabbits: Keep the bird or animal area well secured at night. There are many night predators. Removing one predator often opens the area for another.
• An Opossum Under the House or Deck: During the day, place ammonia-soaked rags or sprinkle human hair in the area they are visiting. The smell will cause them to leave on their own come nightfall.