4 Possum Facts Homeowners Need to Know

Possums (also known as opossum) can be quite difficult to deal with if they decide to nest inside your home. While the nocturnal critters prefer wooded areas, they are quite adaptable to new environments, especially residential attics. If possums manage to get inside your property, you can likely expect costly property damage and a huge mess to clean up as a result of their infestation. To help you get an idea of the wild animals in your home, here are some facts about possums.

Quick Possum Facts for Homeowners

Here are some quick possum facts:

1. Possums Are Hungry and Stealthy

   Generally the size of a cat with a gray coat of fur and a white face, possums only live 1-2 years in the wild. As nocturnal marsupials, possums are mainly active at night, searching for their next meal. Great climbers and swimmers, possums are also stealthy animals that can easily break into your property through vents, pet doors, and window screens.

2. Possums Will “Play Possum”

   If threatened, possums will lay down and “play possum” by acting and even smelling dead to avoid being harmed or attacked. While they may seem dormant, an “dead” opossum can still bite in self-defense.

3. Possums Are Not a Rabies Threat, But Still Dangerous

   It is extremely rare for a possum to have rabies, as they possess a very efficient immune system and a low body temperature. However, there are multiple diseases opossums can carry like tuberculosis, leptospirosis, spotted fever, coccidiosis and many more. Because you never know what to expect when dealing with an unpredictable wild animal, it is always best to take caution and keep a safe distance away from wild possums.

4. Possums Eat Any and Everything

   Hungry possums will feast on insects, plants, dead animals, small animals, and the trash in your garbage cans. They’ll also steal food that you leave on your porch for your pets, so it’s best to bring food bowls inside at night to avoid attracting possums.

If you spot a possum living on your property, inside your attic or behind the ceilings and walls of your home, you must immediately find a way to get rid of it. The best, fastest and most affordable option for Central Florida home and business owners facing a possum infestation is hiring the licensed wildlife removal professionals at Animal Wildlife Trappers.

Effective Possum Removal Services Near You

Our team of experts are committed to the safety of your home and the invasive animal. We will effectively remove nuisance wildlife and prevent them from returning, while staying compliant with local laws and regulations. Serving Orlando, Sanford, Lake Mary, Apopka, Clermont, Windermere and nearby areas with efficient animal removal services, our licensed critter removal experts also offer attic sanitation and odor removal services to ensure that your property is sanitized of all contaminants, germs and diseases that an infestation can leave behind. To schedule an appointment and receive a free quote, call us today at 352-267-0546.