What does a possum sound like in your walls?

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The sounds of a possum in your walls can range from subtle scratching and rustling to loud thumping and gnawing, often heard at night as they are nocturnal creatures. Identifying these sounds is crucial for effective removal and prevention of further damage.

Possums, those nocturnal marsupials with prehensile tails and an uncanny knack for finding their way into unexpected places, are unwelcome guests when they take up residence within the walls of our homes. Understanding the sounds they make is the first step in confirming their presence and taking appropriate action. Let’s delve into the telltale signs that a possum has made your walls its new home.

Possum Sounds: A Comprehensive Guide

The audio landscape of a possum infestation isn’t always obvious. It varies depending on the possum’s activity, the construction of your house, and even the time of year. However, there are key sounds that can help you identify these unwanted tenants.

Scratching and Rustling: This is often the most common and noticeable sound. Possums are clumsy climbers, and their nails scraping against wood or drywall are a dead giveaway. The rustling sounds can come from them moving insulation around to create nests.
Thumping and Bumping: Possums are relatively large animals, especially compared to mice or rats. Their movements create noticeable thumps, particularly in ceilings or walls with minimal insulation.
Gnawing and Chewing: Possums are opportunistic eaters and will chew on anything from wiring to wooden beams. This creates a distinctive gnawing sound.
Vocalization: While less frequent, possums do make noises. These can include hisses, growls, and even high-pitched screeches, especially when they feel threatened. Baby possums, or joeys, will make squeaking noises to communicate with their mother.
Dropping Sounds: You might hear the sound of small objects, like twigs or leaves, falling within the walls. This is a sign that the possum is building a nest and bringing materials inside.

Differentiating Possum Sounds from Other Pests

It’s crucial to differentiate the sounds of a possum from other common pests that might be lurking in your walls. Misidentification can lead to ineffective pest control methods. Here’s a simple table to help:

Sound	Possible Pest	Characteristics
—————————————–	————————	—————————————————————————————
Heavy Thumping, Clumsy Movements	Possum	Loud, infrequent, often accompanied by scratching. Mostly at night.
Light Scampering, Scurrying	Rats/Mice	Quick, frequent, high-pitched. Can be heard day or night.
Buzzing, Scraping	Bees/Wasps	Constant buzzing noise; scraping could be nest building.
Tapping, Clicking	Termites	Subtle, often continuous. Indicates structural damage.
Drumming	Woodpeckers (outside)	Rapid, rhythmic pecking sounds. Usually heard on exterior walls.

Why Possums Enter Walls

Understanding why possums seek refuge within our walls can help us implement preventive measures.

Shelter: Walls provide protection from the elements and predators.
Food Source: They may be attracted by food scraps, pet food, or even insects already residing in your home.
Nesting: Female possums seek safe and warm places to raise their young. Walls offer ideal nesting locations.
Easy Access: Openings in the roof, foundation, or siding provide easy entry points for possums.

The Dangers of a Possum Infestation

Ignoring a possum infestation can lead to several problems.

Property Damage: Possums can damage insulation, wiring, and drywall.
Health Risks: They carry diseases and parasites that can be transmitted to humans and pets. Their droppings also pose a significant health hazard.
Unpleasant Odors: Their urine and feces create a strong, unpleasant odor.
Nocturnal Disturbances: Their nighttime activity can disrupt sleep.

Preventing Possums from Entering Your Walls

Prevention is the best approach when dealing with possums.

Seal Entry Points: Inspect your home for any holes or cracks and seal them with sturdy materials. Pay attention to areas around pipes, vents, and foundations.
Trim Trees: Keep tree branches trimmed back to prevent possums from using them to access your roof.
Secure Garbage Cans: Use tightly sealed garbage cans to prevent possums from being attracted to your property.
Remove Food Sources: Avoid leaving pet food outside and clean up any spilled food or crumbs.
Install Motion-Activated Lights: These can deter possums from approaching your home.

What to Do if You Suspect a Possum in Your Walls

If you suspect a possum is living in your walls, it’s best to contact a professional wildlife removal service. Attempting to trap or remove a possum yourself can be dangerous.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does a possum sound like in your walls compared to other animals?

Possums make louder and clumsier sounds than rodents. Think heavy thumping, scraping, and the occasional hiss or growl. Rodents are more likely to produce quiet scurrying and gnawing sounds. Birds typically chirp or flutter but rarely take up residence inside walls.

Is it dangerous to have a possum in my walls?

Yes, it can be dangerous. Possums carry diseases like leptospirosis and parasites like fleas and ticks. Their droppings can also contain harmful bacteria. They can also cause significant structural damage to your home.

How can I tell if it’s a mother possum with babies?

You’ll likely hear high-pitched squeaking or chirping sounds coming from within the walls, especially around nesting areas. Also, the possum’s activity might be more concentrated around a specific location in the wall.

What is the best time of year to remove a possum from my walls?

The best time is typically in the spring or fall, when there aren’t likely to be dependent young inside the wall. Removing a mother possum during breeding season can result in orphaned joeys dying in your walls.

Can I trap a possum myself?

While it’s legal in some areas, it’s not recommended. Possums can be aggressive and pose a biting hazard. Additionally, trapping and relocating them can be inhumane, as they are often unfamiliar with the new territory and struggle to survive.

Will a possum eventually leave on its own?

It’s unlikely a possum will leave on its own once it has established a comfortable den in your walls. They need to be evicted and excluded properly.

What does a possum sound like in your walls at night?

At night, possums are most active. You’ll hear increased scratching, thumping, and rustling sounds as they forage for food and move around their den.

How do professionals remove possums from walls?

Professionals typically use a combination of live trapping and exclusion. They’ll set humane traps near the entry point and then seal the opening once the possum is removed. One-way doors are also commonly used to allow the possum to leave, but not re-enter.

What materials are used to seal entry points?

Common materials include heavy-gauge wire mesh, sheet metal, and expanding foam. The material needs to be durable enough to withstand the possum’s attempts to re-enter.

How much does it cost to remove a possum from my walls?

The cost varies depending on the severity of the infestation and the removal methods used. However, you can generally expect to pay between $150 and $500 for professional possum removal. This may include sealing entry points and cleaning contaminated areas.

What are some natural ways to deter possums?

Strong scents like ammonia or mothballs can sometimes deter possums. However, these are often ineffective in the long run, and professional removal is usually necessary for a long-term solution.

How can I prevent possums from returning after removal?

The key is to seal all potential entry points and remove any attractants, such as food sources. Regularly inspect your property for any signs of damage or new openings.