Are Possums Safe to Hold?
Holding a possum is generally not recommended. While seemingly docile, possums are wild animals with sharp claws and teeth, carrying potential diseases and a natural instinct to defend themselves.
Introduction: Understanding Possums and Human Interaction
Possums, those often misunderstood marsupials, frequently cross paths with humans, especially in suburban and rural environments. While their nocturnal habits and scavenging nature can make them seem like a nuisance, they play a crucial role in controlling insect populations. The question, “Are possums safe to hold?” arises when people encounter seemingly vulnerable or injured possums and consider intervening. This article will delve into the complexities of interacting with possums, exploring the potential risks and offering alternative solutions for ensuring their well-being while prioritizing human safety. Understanding possum behavior and disease risks is paramount before considering any physical interaction.
Understanding Possum Behavior
Possums, particularly the Virginia opossum ( Didelphis virginiana), are generally shy and non-aggressive animals. However, when threatened, they will defend themselves.
- Playing Possum: Their most famous defense mechanism is feigning death, a catatonic state that can last for several hours.
- Defensive Tactics: If playing possum fails, they may hiss, growl, bite, or scratch.
The Risks of Handling Possums
Direct contact with possums carries several potential risks, making it crucial to reconsider the question, “Are possums safe to hold?” from a health and safety perspective.
- Bites and Scratches: Possums have sharp teeth and claws that can inflict painful wounds, leading to potential infections.
- Disease Transmission: Possums can carry various diseases, including leptospirosis, tuberculosis, and coccidiosis. While they are relatively resistant to rabies, it’s not impossible for them to carry it. They can also carry parasites such as fleas and ticks.
- Stress and Trauma: Handling a wild animal causes significant stress, potentially leading to injury or even death, particularly for young or already weakened individuals.
Legal Considerations
Depending on your location, interacting with or handling wildlife, including possums, may be restricted or require permits. Always check your local wildlife regulations before attempting to handle a possum. Trapping and relocation, even with good intentions, could also be illegal.
Alternatives to Handling Possums
Instead of directly handling a possum, consider these safer alternatives:
- Observation: If the possum appears healthy and uninjured, observe it from a safe distance. It may simply be passing through.
- Professional Assistance: Contact a local wildlife rehabilitator or animal control service if the possum is injured, appears ill, or is posing an immediate threat. These professionals are trained to handle wildlife safely and humanely.
- Prevention: Secure garbage cans, remove pet food left outdoors, and trim tree branches that provide access to your roof or attic to deter possums from entering your property.
When to Seek Professional Help
There are specific scenarios where professional intervention is necessary:
- Visible Injuries: Obvious signs of injury, such as a broken limb or open wound.
- Erratic Behavior: Disorientation, stumbling, or unusual aggression.
- Exposure to Pets: If your pet has attacked a possum, both animals should be checked by a veterinarian.
- Found Orphaned: If you find a young possum that appears to be orphaned (without a mother nearby), contact a wildlife rehabilitator immediately.
Table: Risks vs. Benefits of Handling Possums
| Feature | Risk | Benefit (Rare) |
|---|---|---|
| ——————- | ————————————————————————- | —————————————————————————— |
| Direct Contact | Bites, scratches, disease transmission, stress to the animal, legal issues | Potentially aiding an injured or orphaned animal (best left to professionals) |
| Overall Impact | High risk of harm to both human and animal | Minimal benefit, easily outweighed by the risks |
FAQs: Your Questions About Possum Safety Answered
Is it safe to touch a baby possum?
No, even baby possums should not be touched. While they may appear harmless, they can still bite or scratch. More importantly, they are vulnerable and require specialized care. Contact a wildlife rehabilitator if you find an orphaned baby possum. Never attempt to raise a wild animal yourself.
Can possums transmit rabies?
While possums have a natural resistance to rabies due to their low body temperature, it is not impossible for them to contract and transmit the disease. It is best to avoid any contact with a possum exhibiting signs of illness.
What should I do if a possum bites me?
Thoroughly wash the wound with soap and water. Seek medical attention immediately to assess the risk of infection and determine if any further treatment, such as a tetanus shot, is necessary. Report the bite to your local health department if required by law.
Are possums dangerous to my pets?
Possums are generally not aggressive towards pets, but conflicts can occur, especially if the possum feels threatened. Keep pets indoors at night and secure pet food to avoid attracting possums to your property.
How can I tell if a possum is sick?
Signs of illness in a possum include disorientation, lethargy, difficulty walking, and visible injuries. Avoid contact with any possum exhibiting these symptoms and contact a wildlife rehabilitator.
Are possums beneficial to have around my property?
Yes, possums are highly beneficial because they are excellent at controlling insect and rodent populations. They consume large quantities of ticks, cockroaches, and other pests.
What is the best way to deter possums from my yard?
Secure garbage cans, remove pet food, and eliminate potential shelter sources, such as overgrown vegetation. Motion-activated lights or sprinklers can also deter them. Avoid using poisons or traps that could harm other animals or the possum itself.
Can I relocate a possum that is causing problems?
Relocating a possum is generally not recommended and may even be illegal in some areas. Possums have established territories, and relocating them disrupts their lives and can decrease their chances of survival. It is better to address the underlying issues that are attracting them to your property.
What does it mean when a possum “plays possum?”
Playing possum is an involuntary defensive mechanism. When severely threatened, possums enter a catatonic state, mimicking death to deter predators.
If a possum is injured, can I try to help it myself?
It is best to leave injured possums to trained professionals. Contact a wildlife rehabilitator. Your efforts to help could inadvertently cause more harm, both to yourself and the animal.
Are possum droppings dangerous?
Possum droppings can contain bacteria and parasites that can be harmful to humans and pets. Always wear gloves and a mask when cleaning up possum droppings, and disinfect the area thoroughly.
Is “Are possums safe to hold?” always a resounding “no?”
While there are exceptions, the general answer to “Are possums safe to hold?” is a firm no. The risks to both the human and the animal far outweigh any potential benefits. Leave handling possums to trained professionals.