Possums in your yard or attic? It's a common problem, but dealing with them requires a humane and effective approach. This guide provides you with the knowledge and strategies to safely and responsibly remove possums from your property.
Understanding Possums: Before You Start
Before you begin any possum removal, it's crucial to understand these nocturnal marsupials. Possums are generally harmless, playing a vital role in pest control by consuming insects and other small creatures. They are also quite good at finding their way into tight spaces, often seeking shelter in attics, sheds, or under decks. Knowing their habits helps you understand how to deter them effectively.
Why are Possums Attracted to Your Property?
Possums are opportunistic creatures. They are drawn to areas with:
- Food sources: Unsecured garbage, pet food, and spilled birdseed are major attractants.
- Shelter: Gaps in your home's foundation, holes in siding, or unsecured access points to your attic provide ideal nesting places.
- Water sources: Leaking pipes or accessible water sources will keep them coming back.
Humane Removal Techniques: Getting Rid of Possums the Right Way
Avoid harming possums. They are protected animals in many areas, and harming them can lead to legal consequences. Instead, focus on humane removal methods that encourage them to leave your property without causing them harm.
1. Eliminate Attractants:**
- Secure your garbage: Use tightly sealed bins and dispose of trash regularly.
- Store pet food indoors: Keep pet food in sealed containers and clean up any spills immediately.
- Limit access to bird feeders: Consider removing bird feeders, especially at night, or using feeders that prevent possums from reaching the seed.
- Repair leaks and fix dripping faucets: Eliminate accessible water sources.
2. Block Entry Points:**
- Inspect your home's exterior: Look for any gaps, holes, or cracks in your foundation, siding, or roof.
- Seal entry points: Use steel wool, caulk, or other appropriate materials to seal any openings that possums might be using to enter your property.
- Install screens or netting: Over vents and other openings to prevent access.
3. Encourage Possums to Leave:
- Use bright lights: Possums are nocturnal creatures and bright lights can deter them. Motion-sensor lights are particularly effective.
- Employ noise deterrents: Loud noises, such as banging pots and pans or using a sonic repellent, can startle possums and encourage them to move on. However, be mindful of your neighbours.
- Use commercial repellents: Several commercially available possum repellents utilize scents that are unpleasant to possums. Follow product instructions carefully.
4. When to Call a Professional:
If you've tried these methods and are still having problems with possums, consider contacting a wildlife removal specialist. Professionals have the experience and tools to safely remove possums from your property without harming them. They can also identify and address any structural issues that are attracting the animals.
Prevention is Key: Keeping Possums Away for Good
Once you've successfully removed the possums, focus on prevention to avoid future infestations. Regularly inspect your property for potential entry points and promptly repair any damage. Maintaining a clean yard and eliminating food and water sources are your best defenses against possum problems. By following these tips, you can coexist peacefully with these fascinating creatures, keeping both your home and the possums safe.
