Will a Possum Dig Up a Dead Animal? A Deep Dive
Will a possum dig up a dead animal? The answer is complex, but generally, possums are opportunistic scavengers and, under specific circumstances, may attempt to access a buried carcass, though their primary focus is on easier-to-obtain food sources.
Introduction: The Possum’s Scavenging Nature
Possums, also known as opossums in North America, are often misunderstood creatures. While their nocturnal habits and perceived “rat-like” appearance can be off-putting to some, they play a crucial role in the ecosystem as scavengers. Understanding their diet and behaviors is essential to answering the question, will a possum dig up a dead animal?
Possums as Scavengers: Their Place in the Food Web
Possums are omnivores, meaning they consume both plant and animal matter. Their diet is incredibly diverse and includes:
- Insects
- Fruits and vegetables
- Grains
- Carrion (dead animals)
- Pet food
- Garbage
This opportunistic feeding strategy allows them to thrive in a variety of environments, from rural woodlands to urban backyards. Carrion is a significant part of their diet, particularly when other food sources are scarce.
The Difficulty of Digging: Possum Anatomy and Capabilities
While possums possess strong claws that aid in climbing and grasping, they are not particularly adept diggers. Their claws are designed more for arboreal locomotion than for excavating the earth. Therefore, the ease with which they can access a buried animal will greatly influence their behavior. Factors like soil type, depth of burial, and the size of the carcass all play a role.
Factors Influencing a Possum’s Digging Behavior
Several factors determine whether will a possum dig up a dead animal:
- Depth of Burial: A shallow burial is much more vulnerable. A possum is far more likely to attempt to exhume something buried only a few inches below the surface compared to something buried several feet deep.
- Soil Type: Loose, sandy soil is easier to dig than compacted clay.
- Size and Odor of the Carcass: Larger carcasses emit stronger odors, attracting possums from a greater distance. Decomposition also releases volatile compounds that further enhance the scent.
- Food Availability: If other, easier food sources are readily available (e.g., uncovered garbage, pet food), a possum might not expend the energy to dig.
- Competition: The presence of other scavengers, such as raccoons or foxes, might discourage a possum from digging.
Protecting Buried Animals: Deterrents and Prevention
If you’re concerned about possums (or other animals) digging up a buried pet or other animal, here are some preventive measures:
- Bury Deep: Ensure the animal is buried at least 3-4 feet deep.
- Use a Container: Enclose the animal in a sturdy, sealed container before burial. A wooden box or plastic tub can help.
- Secure the Burial Site: Place heavy rocks or concrete slabs over the burial site.
- Odor Control: Lime or other odor-absorbing substances can help mask the scent.
- Motion-Activated Sprinklers: These can deter animals from approaching the area.
Possum Health and Safety: Considerations for Humans
While possums are generally not aggressive, it’s important to maintain a safe distance. They can carry diseases, although rabies is rare. Avoid direct contact with possums and their droppings. Always wash your hands thoroughly after being in areas where they might be present.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Will a possum dig up a dead animal?
Possums are opportunistic scavengers, and under the right circumstances, they may attempt to dig up a dead animal, especially if it’s buried shallowly and easily accessible.
What attracts possums to carrion?
The strong odor of decomposition is the primary attractant. Possums have a keen sense of smell that allows them to locate carrion from a distance.
Are possums dangerous to humans?
Possums are generally not aggressive and will usually play dead (hence the term “playing possum”) when threatened. However, they can bite or scratch if cornered.
Can possums transmit diseases?
While rabies is rare in possums, they can carry other diseases, such as leptospirosis and salmonellosis. It’s important to avoid direct contact with them.
What is the best way to deter possums from my property?
- Secure garbage cans.
- Remove pet food overnight.
- Clear fallen fruit from your yard.
- Install motion-activated lights or sprinklers.
Do possums only eat dead animals?
No, possums are omnivores and eat a wide variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, insects, and small animals.
How deep do I need to bury a pet to prevent possums from digging it up?
A burial depth of at least 3-4 feet is recommended to deter most scavengers.
Will lime prevent possums from digging?
Lime can help reduce the odor of decomposition, making the carcass less attractive to possums, but it is not a guaranteed deterrent.
Are possums beneficial to the environment?
Yes, possums play a crucial role in controlling insect populations and cleaning up carrion. Their scavenging helps prevent the spread of disease.
What should I do if I find a possum on my property?
Leave it alone. Possums are usually just passing through. If you are concerned, contact your local animal control agency.
What is the difference between a possum and an opossum?
There is no difference. “Possum” is a shortened version of “opossum.” Both terms refer to the same animal.
Will a possum dig up a dead animal even if it’s in a container?
If the container is easily accessible and the scent is strong enough, possibly. Secure, airtight containers made of sturdy materials are much less likely to be breached by a possum. The primary factor is their ability to access the dead animal.