The space beneath porches, decks, and stairs all serve as ideal nesting locations for opossums. If they can find entry, they will also inhabit areas within buildings, such as attics and garages. Since opossums are nocturnal, humans are often unaware of their presence until their foraging behavior becomes a problem. In their search for food, the marsupials may leave behind trash debris and fecal deposits. They even damage property in the way of potential food.

Opossums and other small mammals make meals out of honey bees, which is problematic for beekeepers and negatively affects pollination efforts. Gardens also offer convenient meals and suffer from opossum foraging. Their feces and urine contaminate water and food sources. Finally, opossums are known to carry tuberculosis, tularemia, and Chagas disease, and serve as hosts for fleas. Any bites or scratches received from the animals should be treated immediately by medical professionals.

To prevent opossums from taking up residence under decks and building foundations, property owners should seal any holes with caulk or wire mesh strong enough to withstand animal disturbances. Also, access to potential food sources should be limited. Individuals can achieve this by sealing trash bins with fitted lids and keeping pet and livestock food in secured locations.

Safety is the number one priority, so inexperienced individuals should seek professional removal assistance when opossums become problematic. Tructech wildlife specialists operate with up-to-date equipment and have extensive knowledge of opossum behavior. Taking an integrated pest management approach, our staff can assist in wild animal removal.