Summary: Opossums, while sometimes beneficial in controlling insects, can become a nuisance when they invade your property. Getting rid of them requires persistence, as these adaptable creatures are known for their tenacity. Learn how to get rid of opossums from your property as we explore these DIY options and professional removal methods to help you reclaim your space:
- Natural deterrents: For minor issues, you can keep opossums away by using natural deterrents like cayenne pepper, ammonia mixtures and peppermint oil sprays. These solutions leverage opossums’ sensitive sense of smell, creating unpleasant environments that encourage them to relocate. However, their effectiveness is often temporary and requires frequent reapplication. Rodent repellent sprays may also work.
- Prevent infestations: Eliminate food sources, such as unsecured garbage bins and pet food, to prevent infestations. Securing potential shelter areas, like decks, attics and garages, denies them comfortable habitats. Creating a threatening environment by allowing pets to patrol the yard can also deter opossums.
- Choose professional services: When DIY methods fail, or an infestation is already established, professional wildlife removal services like Urban Jungle Wildlife Removal offer the most effective solution.
Getting rid of opossums is no easy task. They are resilient, stubborn, and persistent, testing your patience with their tenacity and determination.
While professional removal is best for an infestation, there are a few steps you can take on your own to help mitigate issues. Here are a few tips on deterring opossums naturally.
What Is the Best Deterrent for Opossums?
Opossums can be beneficial to have outside your home, but you may want to take action if they begin getting into areas where they do not belong. No deterrent is guaranteed to prevent opossum activity. However, if you’ve encountered opossums on your property, you’ll want to make certain they are not getting into your home. You can start with these deterrents.
Cayenne Pepper
The strong, spicy composition of cayenne pepper mixed with water or hot sauce can help deter opossums. Sprinkle or spray it in your garden and around your property to cause mild irritation to their keen sense of smell.
Ammonia Mixture
Ammonia’s potent smell might help keep opossums away. Dilute it with water and ensure you only spray it outside where it tends to roam.
Peppermint Oil Mixture
Another scent opossums find unpleasant is peppermint. Mix water with peppermint oil and spray it in areas where the animals dwell.
Rodent Repellent Spray
While ineffective with rodents, some opossums dislike rodent-repellent sprays. Spray it in affected areas at least twice a week to increase the chance of effectiveness.
Tips for Preventing Opossum Infestation
Prevention is key in keeping opossums away from your home in the first place. Here’s what you can do.
1. Eliminate Food and Shelter Sources
Opossums seek food and shelter in dark, quiet places. Eliminate their access by blocking entries to your home and securing decks, attics, and garages.
2. Make Them Feel Threatened
Opossums are afraid of natural predators like dogs, coyotes, and bobcats. If you have pets, allow them to patrol your yard, especially at night when opossums are active. They’re less likely to access your property with this constant threat.
3. Aim for Exclusion
Most homes have openings and gaps present that opossums can take advantage of and gain access to your attic, crawlspace, or under your deck. These openings should be preventatively excluded to prevent animal entry. If they’ve already gotten in, it’s best to turn to a professional for removal and exclusion to keep them from coming back.
Frequently Asked Questions About Getting Rid of Opossums
Get your pressing questions on getting rid of opossums answered.
What Will Make Opossums Go Away?
Making opossums go away involves a multi-pronged approach that eliminates their access to food, water and shelter. Securing garbage cans, removing pet food and cleaning up fallen fruit are essential steps. If you have a persistent opossum problem, are unable to identify entry points or are uncomfortable handling the situation yourself, it’s best to call a professional wildlife removal service for help.
What Month Are Opossums Most Active?
Opossums are generally most active during the warmer months, typically from spring to fall. During this time, they are more likely to be out foraging for food and seeking mates. However, opossums do not hibernate and can be active year-round, especially in areas with mild winters.
How Can I Tell if I Have an Opossum Infestation?
To determine if you have an opossum infestation, look for the telltale signs like droppings, overturned garbage cans, disturbed pet food and unusual noises in the attic or under the house, especially at night. You may also spot opossums entering or exiting your property.
Should You Exterminate Opossums in Your Yard?
Exterminating opossums in your yard is not recommended and may even be illegal in some areas. Opossums play a role in the ecosystem, helping to control insect and rodent populations. Instead of resorting to lethal methods, focus on humane exclusion and deterrent techniques to encourage them to leave your property.
If you have concerns about opossums, contact a local wildlife removal service for safe and ethical solutions.
Call Urban Jungle Wildlife Removal for Effective Opossum Removal
While you might be able to keep them at bay on your own, calling a professional wildlife removal company like Urban Jungle is the best, most effective, and fastest way to get rid of opossums.
We have the knowledge, training, expertise, and skills to remove opossums safely and permanently for your peace of mind. Reach out today to get started.
