Should I Leave Possum Alone? Understanding Possum Interactions
Should I leave possum alone? Generally, yes. In most cases, observing from a distance and allowing a possum to go about its business is the best course of action. However, there are exceptions where intervention may be necessary, usually involving sick or injured animals.
Possums, also known as opossums (specifically, the Virginia opossum in North America), are fascinating creatures that play an important role in our ecosystems. They are often misunderstood, and encounters can raise questions about the best approach. This article delves into the world of possums, exploring when and why it’s best to leave them alone, and when intervention might be required. Understanding their behavior, benefits, and potential risks is key to making informed decisions regarding these nocturnal neighbors.
Background: Possums and Their Role
Possums are marsupials, meaning they carry their young in a pouch. They are opportunistic omnivores, eating insects, fruits, vegetables, carrion, and even rodents. This diverse diet makes them excellent natural pest controllers. They are also known for their distinctive defense mechanism: “playing possum,” where they feign death to deter predators. Understanding their basic biology is essential for responsible interactions.
Benefits of Possums
Having possums in your area can actually be beneficial:
- Pest Control: Possums consume large quantities of insects, including ticks, helping to reduce the spread of diseases like Lyme disease.
- Scavenging: They clean up carrion and rotting fruit, which helps keep the environment cleaner.
- Rodent Control: Possums will eat rodents, helping to keep their populations in check.
- Natural Balance: They contribute to the natural balance of the ecosystem by controlling various populations.
Understanding Possum Behavior
Possums are primarily nocturnal, so you’re most likely to encounter them at night. They are generally not aggressive and will usually try to avoid confrontation. Their “playing possum” act is a dramatic but effective way to deter predators. Understanding their behavior is key to peaceful coexistence.
When to Leave Possums Alone
Most encounters with possums require no intervention:
- Possum passing through: If a possum is simply walking through your yard, leave it alone. It’s likely just searching for food or shelter.
- Healthy appearing possum: A possum that appears healthy and is moving normally should be left undisturbed.
- Possum in a safe location: If a possum is in a safe location, such as a tree or under a deck, it’s best to let it be.
When Intervention May Be Necessary
There are situations where intervention might be necessary:
- Injured possum: If you find a possum that is visibly injured, such as a broken leg or open wound, it needs professional help.
- Sick possum: Signs of a sick possum include disorientation, lethargy, or unusual behavior.
- Orphaned possum: If you find a young possum alone, especially if it appears distressed, it may be orphaned and need assistance.
- Possum posing a direct threat: This is rare, but if a possum is behaving aggressively or posing a direct threat to humans or pets, you may need to contact animal control.
Safe Intervention Practices
If you must intervene, prioritize safety:
- Wear gloves: Possums can carry diseases, so always wear gloves when handling them.
- Use a carrier: Use a box or carrier to transport the possum.
- Contact a professional: Contact a wildlife rehabilitator or animal control for assistance. Do not attempt to treat an injured or sick possum yourself.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when dealing with possums:
- Feeding possums: Feeding possums can make them dependent on humans and disrupt their natural foraging behavior.
- Cornering possums: Cornering a possum can make it feel threatened and more likely to defend itself.
- Attempting to relocate possums yourself: Relocating possums can be harmful to them and disrupt the local ecosystem.
- Ignoring signs of distress: Ignoring signs of injury or illness can lead to unnecessary suffering.
Creating a Possum-Friendly Environment
Creating a possum-friendly environment can help minimize conflicts:
- Secure garbage cans: Ensure garbage cans are tightly sealed to prevent possums from accessing food scraps.
- Remove pet food: Do not leave pet food outside, as this can attract possums.
- Trim vegetation: Trim bushes and trees to reduce potential hiding places near your home.
- Seal entry points: Seal any potential entry points into your home, such as under decks or in crawl spaces.
Working with Wildlife Rehabilitators
Wildlife rehabilitators are trained professionals who can provide care for injured or orphaned wildlife. If you find a possum that needs help, contacting a wildlife rehabilitator is the best course of action. They have the expertise and resources to provide appropriate care and eventually release the possum back into the wild.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can a possum hurt my pet?
While possums aren’t typically aggressive, they can defend themselves if threatened. A confrontation between a possum and a pet is possible, but usually involves barking and posturing. Serious injuries are rare, but it’s best to keep pets away from possums to avoid potential conflicts.
What do I do if a possum is living under my porch?
If a possum is living under your porch, you can try to encourage it to leave by making the area less appealing. This could involve placing bright lights or playing loud music. Once the possum has left, seal off the entrance to prevent it from returning.
Are possums dangerous to humans?
Possums are generally not dangerous to humans. They are more likely to “play possum” than to attack. However, they can carry diseases, so it’s important to avoid direct contact and always wear gloves if you must handle them.
Do possums carry rabies?
Possums are highly resistant to rabies due to their low body temperature. While it’s theoretically possible for them to contract the disease, it’s extremely rare.
How do I tell if a possum is sick?
Signs of a sick possum include disorientation, lethargy, difficulty walking, or unusual behavior. If you see a possum exhibiting these signs, contact a wildlife rehabilitator.
What should I do if I find a baby possum?
If you find a baby possum alone, it’s likely orphaned. Contact a wildlife rehabilitator immediately. Do not attempt to care for the baby possum yourself, as it requires specialized care.
How can I keep possums out of my garden?
To keep possums out of your garden, you can use fencing or netting to protect vulnerable plants. You can also try using motion-activated sprinklers to deter them.
Is it legal to trap and relocate possums?
In many areas, it is illegal to trap and relocate possums without a permit. Relocating possums can also be harmful to them and disrupt the local ecosystem. Always check your local regulations before attempting to trap or relocate a possum.
What is the best way to dispose of dead animal carcasses to avoid attracting possums?
To dispose of dead animal carcasses, contact your local animal control or waste management services. They can provide guidance on proper disposal methods. Never leave carcasses exposed, as this will attract possums and other scavengers.
Should I be concerned if I see a possum during the day?
Seeing a possum during the day doesn’t automatically mean it’s sick or injured. Sometimes, they may be out searching for food, especially if they have young. However, if the possum appears disoriented or lethargic, it could be a sign of illness.
What diseases can possums carry?
While possums are relatively clean animals, they can carry diseases such as leptospirosis and tuberculosis. Avoid direct contact with possums and always wear gloves if you must handle them.
Is it OK to give a possum water?
If you find a possum that appears dehydrated, you can offer it a shallow dish of water. However, do not force it to drink. If the possum is unable to drink on its own, contact a wildlife rehabilitator.