Opossum-Proof Your Property: Practical Steps for Homeowners

Posted on March 31, 2025 by richmond

When it comes to safeguarding your property, one of the last things you might consider is defending it against opossums. These nocturnal creatures, known for their cat-sized bodies and distinctive rat-like tails, are a common sight in many neighborhoods. Although they play an important role in controlling pests like ticks and insects, opossums can become a nuisance when they venture onto your property. They may raid trash cans, dig up gardens, or even make themselves at home in your attic or under your deck.

Whether you’re a homeowner concerned about your property or a passionate gardener looking to protect your efforts, this guide will help you understand opossum behavior and equip you with practical strategies to keep them at bay.

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Understanding Opossum Behavior

To effectively opossum-proof your property, it’s crucial to understand why they’re drawn to it in the first place. As omnivores, opossums are opportunistic feeders. Their diet includes fruits, vegetables, pet food, garbage, insects, and even smaller animals like rodents. If your property offers easy access to food or shelter, you may inadvertently be inviting them in.

Why Opossums Are Attracted to Your Property:

Food Availability – Trash cans, pet food left outside, ripe garden produce, or compost piles are irresistible to opossums.
Shelter – Dark, enclosed spaces like attics, under decks, crawlspaces, or sheds provide the perfect hiding spots.
Water Sources – Puddles, bird baths, or leaky faucets can become watering holes for thirsty opossums.

Now that you know what might be bringing these nuisance critters to your property, it’s time to address these attractions head-on.

Sealing Entry Points

One of the most effective ways to prevent an opossum invasion is to seal any potential entry points around your home and outbuildings. These resourceful creatures can squeeze through surprisingly small openings, so a thorough property inspection is essential.

Steps to Seal Entry Points:

Inspect Your Home – Check for cracks, holes, or openings in walls, roofs, and foundations. Pay special attention to areas around vents, chimneys, and crawlspaces.

Secure Doors and Windows – Repair damaged screens and ensure doors (including garage doors) close tightly without gaps.
Block Off Crawlspaces – Install lattice or hardware cloth over the openings beneath decks, porches, and sheds to deny access while maintaining ventilation.
Patch Holes Immediately – Use durable materials like steel mesh, caulking, or plywood to cover openings larger than one inch.

Remember, prevention is always easier than dealing with an infestation later.

Securing Trash and Food Sources

Unsecured trash cans and outdoor food sources are some of the most common reasons opossums frequent residential areas. Properly managing these attractants can significantly reduce encounters.

Tips for Securing Food Sources:

Use Opossum-Proof Trash Cans – Opt for bins with locking lids. For added security, use bungee cords or weights to keep lids firmly in place.
Remove Pet Food – Feed outdoor pets during the day and bring food and water bowls inside at night.
Compost Responsibly – Use a compost bin with a secure lid and avoid adding meat or dairy scraps, which are particularly appealing to opossums.
Harvest Regularly – Collect ripe fruits and vegetables from your garden promptly to prevent them from becoming a snack.

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Garden Protection Strategies

Gardens are a common target for opossums, but with a few precautions, you can safeguard your plants without resorting to drastic measures.

How to Protect Your Garden:

Install Fencing – Use a mesh fence at least four feet tall, and bury it six inches into the ground to prevent burrowing.
Use Raised Garden Beds – Elevating your plants can make it harder for opossums to reach them.
Net Your Plants – Drape lightweight netting over fruit and vegetable plants to deter opossums from nibbling on them.

Using Opossum-Repellents and Deterrents

If opossums are persistent, repellents can be an effective way to discourage them. Here are some options:

Scent-Based Repellents – Use ammonia-soaked rags or commercial products containing predator urine to create an olfactory barrier. Place these near known opossum hangouts.
Motion-Activated Sprinklers – These devices spray water when motion is detected, startling and deterring opossums.
Ultrasonic Devices – Install these to emit high-frequency sounds that are unpleasant for opossums but inaudible to humans.
Natural Repellents – Sprinkle cayenne pepper, garlic powder, or other strong-smelling substances around vulnerable areas.

Creating an Unwelcoming Environment for Possums

The key to long-term opossum control is making your property as unappealing as possible. Small changes can have a big impact.

Steps to Make Your Property Unappealing:

Keep the Yard Tidy – Remove woodpiles, brush, and debris where opossums could hide.
Eliminate Water Sources – Fix leaky faucets, drain standing water, and cover bird baths at night.
Brighten Up the Space – Use motion-sensitive lights around your yard to deter nocturnal visitors.
Install Physical Barriers – Place spikes or deterrent strips on fences and rooftops to make climbing difficult.

FAQs About Opossum Removal and Control:

What should I do if I find an opossum on my property?

First, make sure it is an opossum and not another wild animal. If it is an opossum, contact a professional wildlife control service to have it safely removed and relocated. Never attempt to touch, trap, harm, or kill an opossum.

What should I do if an opossum is injured?

If you come across an injured opossum, it is best to contact a local wildlife removal professional or animal control agency for assistance. Attempting to handle and treat the injury yourself may cause further harm to the animal.

Are there any diseases associated with opossums?

Opossums are susceptible to some diseases, such as leptospirosis, tularemia, and toxoplasmosis. It is important to wear gloves and use caution when handling any wild animal, and to consult a veterinarian if you suspect an opossum may be infected.

Can I keep an opossum as a pet?

In most states, it is illegal to keep opossums as pets without proper permits and licenses. Here in Virginia, the law specifically states that “it is unlawful to import, possess or sell any wild animal” without proper authorization. Additionally, wild animals do not make good pets and can become aggressive or exhibit unpredictable behavior when kept in captivity.

How can I prevent opossums from entering my property?

Opossums are attracted to food sources such as garbage, pet food, and bird feeders. To prevent them from entering your property, make sure to secure all potential food sources and seal any openings or holes where they may enter.

Remove any fallen fruits or vegetables from your garden, as these can also attract opossums.

Final Thoughts

Preventing opossums from becoming unwelcome guests on your property is all about understanding their behavior and taking proactive measures to address attractants. By sealing entry points, securing food sources, protecting your garden, and employing repellents, you can create an environment that’s far less inviting to these critters.

Lastly, always remember the importance of humane opossum control. These creatures may be a nuisance, but they’re also a vital part of the ecosystem, helping to control pests and clean up decay.

If you’re dealing with a particularly stubborn opossum problem in Richmond, Virginia and need professional help, reach out to Virginia Wildlife Pros. We’ll ensure the situation is handled ethically and effectively. Call 804-292-0156 for free estimates and advice.

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Proven Tips for Effective Opossum Removal and Control

Posted on July 26, 2024 by richmond

Have you spotted an opossum scurrying across your yard at night? You’re not alone. These nocturnal creatures often find their way into residential areas, causing headaches for homeowners, gardeners, and property managers alike. This blog will guide you through understanding opossums, detecting their presence, and implementing effective control methods, ensuring your property remains opossum-free.

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Get to Know the Virginia Opossum (Didelphis virginiana)

Opossums are North America’s only marsupial. Known for their nocturnal habits, these creatures are omnivores, feeding on anything from fruits and insects to small animals and garbage. Their adaptability makes them common in both rural and urban areas. While opossums can play a role in the ecosystem by controlling pests, they become nuisances when they invade human spaces. They may forage in garbage cans, create nests under decks, and even prey on ornamental plants.

Top Signs of an Opossum Infestation

How do you know if opossums have made themselves at home on your property? Look for these telltale signs:

Tracks and Droppings: Opossums leave behind distinct tracks and droppings. Their footprints show five-fingered impressions, while their droppings are typically dark and cylindrical with pointed ends.
Noises at Night: If you hear rustling, scratching, or other noises at night, it might be due to opossums. They are nocturnal and usually active after sunset.
Damage to Structures: Check for signs of gnawed wood, disturbed insulation, or damaged screens. Opossums often seek shelter in attics, basements, and under decks.

Health and Safety Concerns

Opossums can pose several health and safety risks. They are carriers of various diseases such as leptospirosis, tuberculosis, and tularemia. Their droppings may harbor parasites like fleas and mites, which can infest pets and humans. Additionally, opossums can cause significant property damage by chewing through electrical wires, insulation, and wooden structures. Their presence can also attract other predators, creating a more significant issue on your property.

Prevention Strategies

To deter opossums, consider the following prevention strategies:

Secure Trash Cans: Use sturdy, sealed trash cans to prevent opossums from scavenging. Store garbage indoors until collection day whenever possible.
Remove Food Sources: Clean up fallen fruit, pet food, and birdseed from your yard. These easily accessible food sources can attract opossums.
Block Entry Points: Inspect your property for potential entry points. Seal gaps under decks, porches, and sheds. Install screens over vents and chimneys to keep opossums out.

Humane Removal Methods

If opossums have already invaded, humane removal methods are essential:

Natural Repellents: Certain scents, like garlic, ammonia, and predator urine, can deter opossums. Place these repellents around your property where opossums are active.
Professional Wildlife Control: For a guaranteed and humane approach, contact a professional Richmond animal removal service. They have the expertise to remove opossums safely and efficiently.

Wildlife Control Legalities

Understanding local ordinances and regulations is crucial before taking action. In some areas, it is illegal to trap and relocate wildlife without a permit. Always check with local authorities or wildlife organizations to ensure compliance with the law. Professional wildlife control services are often well-versed in these regulations and can handle the legal aspects for you.

Post-Infestation Guide

After removing the opossums, take steps to prevent their return:

Repair Damages: Fix any structural damages caused by the opossums. This includes sealing holes, repairing gnawed wires, and replacing damaged insulation.
Regular Inspections: Conduct regular inspections of your property to identify and address any new entry points. Keep an eye out for signs of opossum activity.
Use Opossum Deterrents: Continue using natural repellents and maintain secure trash cans and food sources to keep opossums at bay.

Conclusion

Opossums might be a part of the natural ecosystem, but they can cause significant problems when they invade human spaces. By understanding their habits, detecting their presence, and implementing these strategies, you can effectively control and remove opossums from your property. Timely and humane intervention is key to ensuring the safety and well-being of your home and garden.

If you are looking for professional and reliable wildlife control for these nocturnal nuisance critters, you are in the right place. Contact Virginia Wildlife Pros at 804-292-0156 for opossum removal and control in Richmond and its surrounding counties. Our team is dedicated to helping you maintain an opossum-free environment with expert care and effective solutions.

The Secret Life of Opossums: A Closer Look at Their Daily Routines

Posted on December 15, 2023 by richmond

Opossums, often misunderstood and unfairly vilified, lead fascinating lives that are largely hidden from human view. As nocturnal animals, they navigate through their nightly routines with an intriguing mix of adaptability and resilience. But what exactly does an average day (or night) in the life of an opossum look like?

From its foraging habits to its unique method of opossum control and survival, we’re about to take a closer look at the daily routines of these often overlooked creatures. Get ready to step into the secret life of opossums, and you might just find yourself gaining a new respect for these adept survivors.

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A Nightly Foraging Adventure

As the sun sets and most of the world goes to sleep, opossums come alive. These creatures are strictly nocturnal, which means that they spend their days sleeping and their nights actively foraging for food. With a diet that consists of everything from insects and small animals to fruits and vegetables, opossums have developed a versatile and opportunistic approach to finding their next meal. Using their keen sense of smell, they can locate food even in the dark, which is aided by their long snouts and whiskers that help them navigate through their surroundings.

Multi-Tasking Masters

While foraging may be the main priority for opossums at night, it’s not the only task on their to-do list. Opossums are skilled multi-taskers, and they use their nightly hours to fulfill a variety of other essential activities as well. From grooming and socializing with other opossums to marking their territory and building nests for shelter, these creatures have a busy schedule to keep up with every night.

Playing Dead

One of the most fascinating and well-known abilities of opossums is their unique survival technique – playing dead. When threatened, opossums have the ability to go into a state of shock that makes them appear dead to predators. This helps them avoid danger, as many predators prefer fresh prey over carrion. While in this state, opossums also release a foul-smelling odor that further deters predators from attacking them.

Opossum Babies

As with many animals in the wild, opossums face significant challenges during their first months of life. Babies, known as joeys, are born after only a 13-day gestation period and are extremely tiny, about the size of a honey bee. They then spend the next two to three months inside their mother’s pouch, surviving solely on her milk. That’s right, opossums are marsupials just like kangaroos. After leaving the pouch, they continue to nurse for a few more weeks before venturing out on their own. As a result of this precarious start to life, opossum mothers are extremely protective and nurturing towards their young.

Humane Solutions for Nuisance Opossums

While opossums may seem harmless and intriguing from a distance, they can quickly become a nuisance when they decide to take up residence in or around our homes. In addition to the mess and damage they can cause, their tendency to scavenge through trash and gardens can be a health hazard for humans. If you find yourself with unwelcome opossum neighbors, it’s important to seek out professional wildlife removal and control solutions for opossums. This may include using motion-activated sprinklers or sound devices to deter them from your property, as well as setting up exclusion channels and sealing up any potential entry points to prevent them from getting in.

In Summary

From their nightly foraging adventures to their unique survival techniques and important role in the ecosystem, opossums lead intriguing lives that are worth learning more about. By gaining a better understanding of these often misunderstood creatures, we can develop a newfound appreciation for their adaptability and resilience.

So, next time you spot an opossum in your backyard or on your street, take a moment to appreciate the secret life of these fascinating creatures. So, it’s our responsibility to live in harmony with them and respect their right to survive alongside us. Together, we can share this planet with all its inhabitants and continue to learn from one another.

Would you like expert assistance with nuisance possum troubles? Contact Virginia Wildlife Pros at 804-292-0156 for professional opossum removal and control in Richmond and beyond. Our licensed and insured animal trappers work with all native Virginia wildlife, using only safe and humane methods to extract and abate nuisance animals. Request a free quote, today.

Opossum Control Tips for Homeowners

Posted on July 27, 2023 by richmond

Opossums, with their pointy snouts and hairless tails, can be an unusual sight for homeowners. While they are typically non-aggressive and play a crucial role in controlling pests such as mice and ticks, their presence can still be problematic. They can overturn trash cans, create nests in attics or garages, and spread fleas or other parasites.

Thus, opossum control becomes essential for maintaining a safe and clean home environment. This blog post will provide you with practical opossum removal tips and will guide you on how to use opossum repellents effectively. Let’s ensure you can enjoy your home, free from the unexpected visits of these nocturnal marsupials!

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Common Opossum Problems for Homeowners

One of the most common issues caused by opossums is their propensity to overturn trash cans. To address this, make sure your garbage bins are securely fastened and sealed. This will prevent them from accessing your trash and ensure a cleaner environment around your home. Opossums can also cause damage to your property if they find their way into an attic or garage. To prevent this, you should ensure that all the openings leading up to these spaces are covered and sealed with strong mesh screens.

Effective Opossum Control Strategies

If you already have an opossum on your property, removal will be necessary for your safety and peace of mind. The most humane and direct approach to opossum removal is through eviction. This can be achieved by setting up a one-way door, which will allow the opossum to leave your property but not return.

If the animal has already taken up residence in an attic or garage, then you may need to enlist the help of professional wildlife removal services. They will be able to use humane traps and other tools to safely remove the animal from your property.

Utilizing Opossum Repellents

The use of repellents is another effective way to prevent opossums from entering your property. There are several types of commercial repellents available in the market, such as those made with predator urine or predator-scented sprays. These repellents can be placed around the perimeter of your home to discourage opossums from entering.

If you want to take a more natural approach, then try using items like garlic, lemon peel, and cayenne pepper as opossum repellents. Just sprinkle them around the outside of your property and they will act as a natural deterrent for opossums.

Cleaning Up After an Opossum Infestation

It is important to take the necessary steps to clean up your property after an opossum infestation. This includes thoroughly cleaning any areas that may have been contaminated by feces or urine, disinfecting any surfaces that may have come into contact with the animal, and repairing any structural damages. If fleas were present during the infestation, you should also use an insecticide to ensure that they are eliminated from your home.

In Summary

Following these opossum control tips and strategies can help you keep your home safe and secure from nocturnal marsupials. Taking preventative measures such as sealing holes and using repellents can help you avoid unwelcome visitors and unpleasant issues. Keep your home clean and free from contamination by following these simple tips!

Note: Make sure to always use humane methods when dealing with opossums, as they play an important role in maintaining the balance of our ecosystems. In addition, it is illegal to relocate or kill any wild animal without proper authorization in most places, so be sure to consult your local wildlife authorities before taking any drastic measures.

Would you like some professional assistance with getting rid of opossums in your yard or commercial property? Contact Virginia Wildlife Pros at 804-292-0156 for licensed and insured opossum removal and control in Richmond, Virginia, and surrounding counties. We serve residential and commercial customers with comprehensive mice and rat removal solutions at affordable prices. Request a free quote, today!

How to Choose the Right Animal Removal Company in Virginia

Posted on May 5, 2023 by richmond

Are you in need of an animal removal company in Virginia? If so, it’s important to choose the right one for your needs. Not all companies offer the same services or have the same experience and expertise. To help you make an informed decision, here are some tips on how to choose a reputable wildlife control and removal service provider.

From what questions to ask before hiring them to understanding their methods of operation, this guide will give you all the information necessary to make sure that your home is safe from unwanted critters.

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Tips for Finding a Reliable Virginia Animal Removal Service Near You

Start With Online Research

First, research the wildlife control and animal removal companies in your area. Before you hire any company, make sure they are licensed and insured to do business in Virginia so that your home is fully protected. Ask them about their experience with different types of animals, as well as what methods of capture and relocation they use. If possible, inquire if they have specific knowledge on the local species of wildlife you may be dealing with.

Ask About References

Also ask for references from past customers who can attest to the quality of services provided by the particular animal removal company. An established track record speaks volumes about a business’s commitment to its work and credibility in the industry. Furthermore, make sure that their pest management solutions comply with Virginia state laws for wildlife control and removal.

Ask About Pricing and Insurance Work

In addition to checking the credentials of potential animal removal companies, inquire about their pricing scheme. Some may offer more affordable rates but use outdated or unsafe methods that can jeopardize your home’s safety. Others might have higher prices but could guarantee a successful removal experience with a long-term solution.

Aim for More Amenities

Finally, look for a company that offers follow-up services after the active infestation has been eradicated. This is an important part of making sure that any future problems are addressed swiftly to prevent further damage to your property. A reputable animal control company should provide you with inspections and advice on how to keep pests out in the future as well.

Conclusion

By taking these steps, you’ll be able to find an animal removal company in Virginia that meets your needs. With the right provider on your side, you can rest assured that any unwanted creatures will be eliminated quickly and safely from your premises.

Common Types of Nuisance Wildlife in Virginia:

Raccoons – Raccoons are one of the most common types of nuisance wildlife in Virginia. They are often seen rummaging through trash cans or raiding bird feeders. Raccoons can also be a nuisance if they take up residence in your attic or crawlspace. While they may seem cute, raccoons can carry diseases such as rabies and should not be handled.

Squirrels – Squirrels are another common type of nuisance wildlife in Virginia. They are often seen chasing each other around trees or digging through gardens. Squirrels can also be a nuisance if they take up residence in your attic or crawlspace. While they may seem cute, squirrels can carry diseases such as rabies and should not be handled.

Opossums – Opossums are another common type of nuisance wildlife in Virginia. They are often seen rummaging through trash cans or raiding bird feeders. Opossums can also be a nuisance if they take up residence in your attic or crawlspace. While they may seem cute, opossums can carry diseases such as rabies and should not be handled.

Snakes – Snakes are another common type of nuisance wildlife in Virginia. They are often seen sunning themselves on rocks or swimming in ponds and streams. Snakes can also be a nuisance if they take up residence in your home or yard. While some snakes are harmless, others can be venomous and should not be handled without proper training and equipment.

Are you interested in a professional solution for getting rid of bothersome critters and rodents in Old Dominion? Contact Virginia Wildlife Pros at 804-292-0156 for licensed and insured wildlife removal and control in Richmond and beyond. We serve residential and commercial customers with comprehensive critter control and animal removal solutions at affordable prices. Request a free quote, today!

Dealing with Nuisance Opossums in Your Yard: What You Need to Know

Posted on March 17, 2023 by richmond

If you have opossums in your yard, then you know how much of a nuisance they can be. Not only do these animals leave behind messes and damage to your property, but they also carry many diseases that can make humans sick. While some may think trapping or killing the opossums is an effective solution, it’s important to understand all of the options available before taking such drastic measures.

In this blog post, we’ll look at different ways to get rid of opossums without harming them or putting yourself in danger. We’ll cover topics such as opossum removal and control methods, tips for deterring them from coming back into your yard, and more. By learning more about these creatures and understanding their behaviors better, you can take steps towards keeping them away from your property safely and humanely.

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Opossum Proofing 101: How to Get Rid of Opossums

Opossum Attractions

The first step to getting rid of opossums is to understand what attracts them in the first place. These animals are scavengers, meaning they feed off of whatever food sources they can find. Items like pet food, garbage cans, and bird feeders can all be attractive to opossums when left out in the open. By limiting these items and keeping them secured away from the reach of these creatures, you can help deter them from coming into your yard.

Opossum Deterrents

In addition to removing potential food sources, there are several other ways you can get rid of opossums from your property. One method is to use opossum repellent. You can make your own, homemade, non-toxic version, or you can purchase animal repellents from a trusted retailer. You can also use possum deterrents such as bright lights, talk radio, and motion-activated lights or sprinklers to scare them away. These methods are effective but should be applied in accordance with industry best practices regarding wildlife control. Avoid using lethal traps and poisons.

Licensed Opossum Removal and Control Services

Finally, consider using a professional service for opossum removal and control if all other options fail. A wildlife expert will know how to properly handle these animals without putting anyone in danger, and they will have access to more powerful tools like traps and cages for relocation. This is definitely the best option for getting rid of nuisance opossums from your yard since it guarantees their safe capture and release from your property.

Now You Can Safely Get Rid of Opossums in the Yard!

Dealing with opossums in your yard can be a tricky problem to solve, but it’s not impossible. By taking the time to learn more about these animals and their behaviors, you can take steps towards keeping them away from your property safely and humanely. With the right opossum removal and control methods, you can enjoy a peaceful yard without any unwanted visitors.

By following the tips outlined above, you should have no trouble getting rid of nuisance opossums from your yard in no time! Make sure to call a professional if all else fails – they will have the skills and tools necessary for successful opossum removal and control services.

Can’t seem to get rid of nuisance opossums in the yard no matter what you try? Reach out to Virginia Wildlife Pros at 804-292-0156 for opossum removal and control service in Richmond, Virginia and surrounding areas. We serve residential and commercial customers with comprehensive mice and rat removal solutions at affordable prices. Request a free quote, today!