Opossums are unique creatures. Not only did they roam the Earth 70 million years ago alongside dinosaurs, they are recognized as North America’s only marsupial. Although there are more than 65 species of opossums, only one is native to North America, the Didelphis virginiana, better known as the Virginia opossum.

Opossum Features

Opossums have 50 teeth, more than any land mammal in North America, which can make DIY opossum removal dangerous. Their hairless, prehensile tail is used for grasping branches, carrying nesting material, and balancing. They are grayish white and have opposable thumbs on their hind feet allowing them to hold onto branches.

Opossum Housing

The nocturnal opossum wanders into our neighborhoods in search of food and water. Their diet consists of all types of things including bugs, insects, mice, rats, pet food, and rotting food that has fallen from trees. Because their diet includes just about everything, opossums have been coined by some as “Nature’s Little Sanitation Engineer.”

While they prefer to live in tree cavities or dens abandoned by previous animals, it isn’t uncommon for opossums to wander into homes in search of food and shelter especially as the weather begins to cool down. Sometimes you will discovered they have taken up residence in unoccupied garages, sheds, attics, or underneath porches.

Prevention

Opossums can benefit your property when they eat rotting food, unwanted rodents, and other things you don’t want around, but they can also become a nuisance when they begin taking food from your garden or rummaging through your garbage cans. To help deter opossums from being attracted to your home, make sure your property is cleared of any outdoor food sources. Bring pet food dishes inside overnight, secure your garbage lids, and pick up any fruit from the ground that may have fallen from the tree.

Opossum Removal

If you are having issues with opossums on your property, contact a trained technician at Critter Control of Gainesville for humane opossum removal. Our professionals have the knowledge and tools to humanely capture and release any opossums from your home or business. Contact us on the web or call us at 352-372-3922 to let us provide you with our reliable and efficient opossum removal and exclusion services.