Possums are nocturnal creatures that can cause quite a bit of damage to your yard if left unchecked.
These critters are known for their scavenging habits and can easily get into your garbage cans and garden, spreading diseases and making a mess.
While possums may appear harmless, they can be quite a nuisance for homeowners, especially if they have a tendency to dig their way into your yard.
In this article, we will provide practical tips on how to possum-proof your yard and keep these critters out for good.
Short Summary
- Possums can cause a mess in gardens and landscapes and spread diseases.
- Possums do not dig underground to gain access to gardens but can dig their way into the ground if fences are small or not properly fitted.
- To prevent possums from entering yards, simple steps can be taken such as covering garbage cans, removing fallen vegetables and fruit, thinning out vegetation, and keeping yards neat and tidy.
- Humane methods should be used to get rid of possums, and cleaning up after pets and removing animal products from compost piles can also prevent possums from entering yards.
Possum Behavior
Possums are nocturnal scavengers that are often mistaken for raccoons and can be hurt by humans.
They have a unique defense mechanism where they faint and secrete a substance to make predators think they are dead.
This allows them to escape from danger and survive in the wild.
Despite having sharp claws, possums typically do not dig underground to gain access to gardens. Instead, they dig to find food, especially bugs, under the ground.
They can also dig their way into the ground if fences are small or not properly fitted.
However, their desire to dig under fences increases if they notice food items available.
Possums are attracted to available food in yards, and their nocturnal habits make it easy for them to scavenge for food at night.
They also like to live in hollowed legs or tree trunks and rummage around untidy spots.
Possums can cause a mess in gardens and landscapes and spread diseases such as spotted fever.
Therefore, it is essential to take preventive measures to keep them out of your yard.
By cleaning up after pets, removing animal products from compost piles, thinning out vegetation, and removing hiding spots, you can prevent possums from entering your yard.
Simple steps can be taken to completely get rid of possums without much effort.
Attractants to Avoid
To prevent nocturnal visitors from entering your property, it is important to avoid leaving attractants readily available.
These include uncovered garbage cans, pet food, water dishes, and fallen vegetables and fruit in your yard.
These items are enticing to possums and can increase the likelihood of them digging under fences or finding other ways to gain access to your property.
Eliminating food sources is the first step in possum-proofing your yard.
In addition to eliminating food sources, it is also important to have proper fencing to keep possums out.
Possums can dig their way into the ground if fences are small or not properly fitted.
A sturdy fence that is at least 4 feet tall and buried at least 6 inches underground can help deter possums from entering your yard.
It is also important to regularly inspect your fence for any gaps or openings that may have been created by animals or wear and tear.
Taking these preventative measures can help keep possums out of your yard and prevent any damage or mess they may cause.
Humane Removal Options
One effective method for addressing the presence of possums in one’s yard is through the use of humane removal options.
This approach involves removing the possums without causing them harm.
There are several techniques that fall under this category, including trapping and the use of natural repellents.
Trapping techniques involve the use of live traps that capture the possums without injuring them.
These traps can be baited with food items that possums are known to enjoy, such as fruits or vegetables.
Once the possum is captured, it can be released in a safe and suitable location away from the yard.
Natural repellents, on the other hand, use substances that possums find unpleasant to deter them from entering the yard.
Examples of such substances include vinegar, ammonia, and garlic.
These repellents can be sprayed around the perimeter of the yard or applied to specific areas where possums are known to frequent.
By using humane removal options, individuals can effectively address the presence of possums in their yards without causing harm to these creatures.
| Trapping Techniques | Natural Repellents |
|---|---|
| Use of live traps that capture possums without injuring them | Substances that possums find unpleasant to deter them from entering the yard |
| Bait traps with food items that possums enjoy | Examples of substances include vinegar, ammonia, and garlic |
| Release captured possums in safe and suitable locations away from the yard | Repellents can be sprayed around the perimeter of the yard or applied to specific areas where possums are known to frequent |
FAQs:
How do possums interact with other animals in their environment?
Possum interactions with other animals in their environment vary. They are preyed upon by larger mammals and birds of prey and can compete with other species for food and habitat. Possums have an ecological role in seed dispersal and controlling insect populations.
Can possums climb over fences?
Like a skilled mountaineer, possums can climb fences with ease. However, they prefer to dig under boundaries for food and shelter. Properly fitted and taller fences can deter possums from entering yards.
What are some signs that indicate possum activity in a yard?
Possum droppings, overturned trash cans, and damaged plants are signs of possum activity in a yard. To remove them safely, use humane traps and relocate them far away. Possums help control tick populations but can also carry diseases.
Do possums hibernate during the winter months?
Possums do not hibernate during winter. Instead, they are able to adapt to the cold weather through behaviors such as seeking shelter in dens or hollowed trees and increasing their food intake. They also have physiological adaptations such as a lower metabolic rate.
Are there any plants or scents that repel possums from entering a yard?
Can natural repellents or DIY barriers keep possums out of yards? While some suggest using plants like eucalyptus or garlic, there is little evidence to support their effectiveness. Ultrasonic devices may also be ineffective.
