Why do possums come to your house?

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Why do possums come to your house? Possums are attracted to your property primarily in search of food, shelter, and water. Your home can inadvertently provide these resources, making it an appealing destination for these nocturnal marsupials.

Understanding the Possum’s Perspective

Possums, also known as opossums, are opportunistic creatures native to North America. They’re not particularly picky and will consume a wide variety of foods. Why do possums come to your house? Understanding their needs and motivations is the first step in deterring them. They aren’t actively trying to invade your space, but rather they are looking for survival.

The Allure of Food

Food is perhaps the most significant factor drawing possums to residential areas. They are opportunistic omnivores with a broad diet. Things that attract them include:

Pet food: Leftover cat or dog food is a major draw.
Garbage: Unsecured trash cans provide an easy meal.
Fruit trees and gardens: Fallen fruit and garden vegetables are attractive to possums.
Bird feeders: Seeds and nuts spilled from bird feeders are a readily available food source.
Compost piles: Decomposing food scraps in compost piles are another attraction.

The Search for Shelter

Possums seek shelter to protect themselves from predators and the elements. Your house and yard can provide several ideal hiding spots:

Under decks and porches: These offer a protected, dark space.
In sheds and garages: Open doors or gaps in siding can provide access.
In attics and crawl spaces: These are warm and relatively undisturbed locations.
In tree hollows or dense shrubbery: Natural hiding places in your yard can also harbor possums.

Water Availability

Like all living creatures, possums need water. Easily accessible water sources can attract them to your property:

Pet bowls: Outdoor pet water bowls are an obvious source.
Bird baths: These provide a convenient place for possums to drink.
Leaky faucets or hoses: Even small leaks can attract possums.
Standing water: Puddles after rain or in poorly drained areas can be a water source.

Breeding Season and Possum Families

During breeding season, possums are even more driven to find resources to support their young. This can increase their activity around your house. Female possums carry their young in a pouch, and later on their backs, further increasing their food requirements. Why do possums come to your house? To support their family, female possums need more food and safer shelter.

Deterring Possums: Practical Steps

Once you understand what attracts possums, you can take steps to make your property less appealing. These steps are primarily preventative:

Secure your garbage: Use tightly sealed trash cans and store them in a garage or shed when possible.
Remove pet food: Bring pet food indoors at night.
Clean up fallen fruit: Regularly collect fallen fruit from your yard.
Secure bird feeders: Use bird feeders that are difficult for possums to access and clean up spilled seeds.
Seal access points: Seal any holes or gaps in your house, sheds, and other structures.
Trim vegetation: Keep shrubs and trees trimmed to reduce potential hiding places.
Use motion-activated lights or sprinklers: These can deter possums from entering your yard.
Consider exclusion methods: One-way doors can allow possums to leave a building but prevent them from re-entering.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What should I do if I find a possum in my house?

The best approach is to remain calm and avoid direct contact. Open a door or window and allow the possum to leave on its own. Do not try to corner or trap it, as this could provoke it to bite or scratch. If the possum does not leave, contact animal control or a wildlife removal service.

Are possums dangerous?

Possums are generally not aggressive and prefer to avoid confrontation. However, they can bite or scratch if they feel threatened. They can also carry diseases, although the risk of transmission to humans is relatively low. It is best to avoid direct contact with possums.

Do possums carry rabies?

Possums are remarkably resistant to rabies due to their low body temperature. While it is theoretically possible for them to contract rabies, it is extremely rare. Other diseases are possible so avoid direct contact.

Will possums attack my pets?

Possums are generally timid and are more likely to be preyed upon by dogs and cats than to attack them. However, conflicts can occur, especially if a possum feels threatened. It’s best to keep pets indoors at night to minimize potential interactions.

How can I tell if I have a possum living under my deck?

Signs of a possum under your deck include: droppings, strong odors, scratching sounds, and visual sightings. You may also find disturbed nesting material. Regular inspection around your house can help you notice these signs early.

What is the best way to get rid of possums humanely?

The most humane approach is to make your property less attractive to possums by removing food and shelter sources. Exclusion methods, such as one-way doors, can also be effective. Avoid trapping and relocating possums, as they are unlikely to survive in unfamiliar territory. It’s best to deter them before they become a problem.

Are possums beneficial to have around?

Possums can be beneficial in some ways. They eat insects, rodents, and carrion, helping to control pests and clean up the environment. They can also eat ticks, which are known carriers of Lyme disease. While beneficial, they are still considered a nuisance animal when they reside around your house.

How long do possums live?

Possums typically live only 1-2 years in the wild, due to predation, traffic accidents, and other hazards. In captivity, they can live longer, but their lifespan is still relatively short. Harsh conditions make survival challenging.

What do possum droppings look like?

Possum droppings are similar in appearance to dog droppings, but they often contain undigested food, such as seeds or berries. They are typically dark in color and can be found in areas where possums frequent. Careful monitoring of fecal matter around your home can help you identify the presence of wildlife.

Can I relocate a possum if I catch it?

Relocating possums is generally not recommended. They have established territories, and relocating them can disrupt local ecosystems and reduce their chances of survival. It’s better to focus on deterring them from your property in the first place.

What are some natural repellents for possums?

There are no proven natural repellents for possums. While some people suggest using ammonia or mothballs, these are not effective and can be harmful to the environment and other animals. Focus on removing attractions instead.

Will an exterminator get rid of possums?

Exterminators can remove possums from your property, but it’s important to choose a company that uses humane methods. Trapping and relocating or euthanizing possums should be a last resort. Prevention is still the best method.