If you find an opossum in your yard, it can be unsettling. However, it is important to understand that native wildlife plays an essential role in the ecosystem. Rather than trying to play superhero, it is better to contact an animal control company that can help you remove opossums in a humane manner and without harming the environment. Despite the internet being chock full of do-it-yourself opossum removal tips and tricks, these DIY methods often fail to deliver on their promises.

Preventing opossums from entering your property in the future involves making your yard less appealing to foraging wildlife. Keeping trash cans closed, removing pet food left outside, and cleaning up fallen fruits from the yard will all help deter opossums. Additionally, installing barriers like mesh and fencing will prevent opossums from accessing potential shelters under decks or porches.

Another good way to keep opossums off your property is by using repellents. Products such as naphthalene balls and quassia chips can be sprinkled around entry points of your home to deter opossums from entering. These deterrents are safe for pets and children to ingest as they contain no harmful chemicals.

Before attempting to trap or kill opossums, it is important to be aware of your local laws and legal guidelines. Capturing and relocating opossums may require a permit, and certain species are protected in some regions. A professional animal control service can advise you of the legal guidelines in your area.

Using a cage trap is also risky for the opossum, as it can get caught in an unnatural position and die from heat stroke or dehydration. A professional can safely and humanely trap opossums and relocate them far away from your home.

Opossums that have made their way inside the house are a different story. These animals can be a hazard to your health and the safety of your family and pets, especially if they are carrying disease or dropping waste materials. They can also cause severe damage to your property and lead to expensive repairs and loss of valuables. It is important to call a New York wildlife control expert for these types of urgent situations, as they can handle the opossum humanely and legally and make sure that it does not return.

When an opossum makes its way into your home, you will need to search the attic carefully to locate the entry point and seal it off to prevent re-entry. A professional will also have the proper equipment to remove any baby opossums that were living in the attic with the mother. Once the opossum is gone, it is crucial to repair any damage that it caused. This includes replacing damaged shingles and sealing any other entry points with material that will deter opossums from returning.