Will Possums Come After You? Unveiling the Truth About Possum Behavior
While most possums prefer to avoid human contact, understanding their behavior and potential interactions is crucial; generally, no, possums will not come after you.
Understanding the Possum: A Misunderstood Marsupial
The common possum, also known as the Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana), is North America’s only marsupial. Often misunderstood and feared, these creatures play a vital role in our ecosystems. Let’s dispel some common misconceptions about them. They are often associated with disease, aggressive behavior, and property damage, but their true nature is far more complex and, frankly, quite fascinating.
Why Possums Aren’t Looking For Trouble
Possums are primarily nocturnal and solitary animals. They are omnivores, with a diet consisting of:
- Insects (a major component, making them natural pest controllers)
- Fruits and berries
- Carrion (dead animals)
- Garbage (when available)
- Pet food (if left outdoors)
Their preference is to avoid confrontation. Their primary defense mechanism isn’t aggression, but “playing possum”—feigning death to deter predators. This involuntary reaction renders them seemingly lifeless, complete with a foul odor that discourages potential attackers.
Possum Myths vs. Reality
| Myth | Reality |
|---|---|
| :————————————– | :—————————————————————————————————————————————————————— |
| Possums are aggressive and dangerous. | Possums are generally docile and prefer to avoid humans. They only bite if they feel cornered and threatened. |
| Possums carry rabies frequently. | Possums have a low body temperature, making them less susceptible to rabies. They are much less likely to carry rabies than raccoons or skunks. |
| Possums are dirty and disease-ridden. | While they can carry parasites like fleas and ticks, possums are actually quite clean animals. They groom themselves regularly and help control tick populations. |
| Possums actively seek out human homes. | Possums are opportunistic and seek shelter and food. They may enter homes or yards in search of these resources, but they don’t actively “seek out” human dwellings. |
What Attracts Possums to Your Property
Understanding what draws possums to your property is essential for preventing unwanted encounters. The main attractants include:
- Food sources: Pet food left outdoors, unsecured garbage cans, fallen fruit from trees, bird feeders.
- Shelter: Unsealed crawl spaces, sheds, under decks, wood piles.
- Water sources: Pet water bowls, leaky faucets, standing water.
By eliminating these attractants, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of possums visiting your property.
Minimizing Possum Encounters
Here’s what you can do to minimize interactions and ensure possums will not come after you:
- Secure garbage cans: Use tight-fitting lids and store cans in a garage or shed.
- Remove food sources: Bring pet food indoors at night, clean up fallen fruit, and take down bird feeders.
- Seal entry points: Repair holes in foundations, seal crawl spaces, and install screens on vents.
- Trim vegetation: Keep bushes and trees trimmed back to reduce hiding places.
- Use motion-activated lights or sprinklers: These can deter possums from entering your yard.
- Avoid direct contact: If you encounter a possum, give it space and allow it to leave on its own. Do not try to approach or handle it.
- Consult a professional: If you have a persistent possum problem, contact a wildlife removal service.
The Ecological Role of Possums
Despite their reputation, possums are beneficial to the environment. Their diet includes insects, snails, and slugs, helping to control pest populations in gardens and yards. They also consume carrion, contributing to the breakdown of organic matter. They are essentially nature’s sanitation workers.
Understanding Possum Behavior During Mating Season
Mating season for possums varies depending on location, but it typically occurs from late winter to early fall. During this time, male possums may become more active and vocal as they search for mates. While this increased activity might make them more visible, it doesn’t necessarily make them more aggressive. They are still more likely to avoid humans than to seek them out.
Dealing with an Injured or Orphaned Possum
If you encounter an injured or orphaned possum, do not attempt to handle it yourself. Contact a local wildlife rehabilitation center or animal control for assistance. They have the expertise and resources to properly care for the animal and ensure its safety.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are possums dangerous to humans?
Possums are generally not dangerous to humans. They are shy and reclusive creatures that prefer to avoid confrontation. However, like any wild animal, they may bite or scratch if they feel threatened. It’s best to give them space and avoid direct contact.
Do possums carry rabies?
Possums are less likely to carry rabies than other wild animals, such as raccoons, skunks, and bats. Their low body temperature makes them less susceptible to the virus.
How do I get rid of a possum that’s living under my deck?
To get rid of a possum under your deck, first remove any food sources that might be attracting it. Then, seal off all entry points except one. Place some repellent (like rags soaked in ammonia) near the opening, and wait for the possum to leave. Once it’s gone, seal the final entry point.
What should I do if a possum is in my yard?
If a possum is in your yard, leave it alone. It will likely move on its own accord. If you’re concerned, you can try making noise to scare it away. Avoid approaching or cornering the animal.
Will possums attack my pets?
While uncommon, possums can attack pets if they feel threatened. Supervise your pets when they are outside, especially at night, and keep their food and water bowls indoors to avoid attracting possums.
Do possums eat ticks?
Yes, possums are known for eating ticks. They consume thousands of ticks each year, making them beneficial in controlling tick populations and reducing the risk of Lyme disease.
What do possum droppings look like?
Possum droppings are similar in appearance to dog droppings, but they often contain undigested food, such as seeds, berries, or insects. They are typically dark in color and may have a pointed shape.
Are possums protected by law?
Possums are generally not protected by law in most areas of the United States. However, local regulations may vary, so it’s essential to check with your local animal control or wildlife agency.
What is the best way to deter possums from my garden?
To deter possums from your garden, use fencing, netting, or motion-activated sprinklers. You can also try spreading repellents such as blood meal, bone meal, or garlic powder around your plants.
Can I relocate a possum on my own?
Relocating a possum on your own is generally not recommended. It’s often illegal, and it can be harmful to the animal. Possums have established territories, and relocating them can disrupt their ability to find food and shelter. It’s best to contact a professional wildlife removal service.
What does it mean when a possum “plays dead”?
“Playing possum” is an involuntary defense mechanism. When threatened, possums enter a catatonic state, appearing dead to deter predators. This includes emitting a foul odor and drooling, making them seem unappetizing.
Are baby possums dangerous?
Even baby possums will try to defend themselves if they feel threatened. They might bite or scratch, though they will generally prefer to run away. Handling baby possums is not advisable. They are best left alone, or professional assistance can be sought to reunite them with their mother.