From knocking over trash cans to leaving their not-so-subtle marks behind, dealing with possums can be a frustrating battle. But fear not, because in this blog post, Possum Removal Hobart is going to equip you with all the knowledge and strategies you need to reclaim your territory from these clever critters. Get ready for some epic tales of survival, ingenious tricks, and a few good laughs along the way as we dive into the ultimate guide on how to deal with uninvited possum guests in your home!
Introduction: What is a Possum?
If you’ve never heard of a possum, you’re not alone. These odd-looking animals are actually quite common in North America, but they are often misunderstood. Possums are nocturnal marsupials that are native to Australia and New Guinea. They were introduced to North America in the early 1900s for the fur trade and have since become an invasive species. Possums are about the size of a house cat and have long, pointed noses. They are covered in fur that is usually gray or brown, and they have long tails. Possums are not rodents, but they do have a similar appearance.
Possums are generally harmless animals, but they can be a nuisance if they find their way into your home. These pests are known for being scavengers, so they will rummage through your trash cans in search of food. Possums can also carry diseases like rabies, so it’s important to be cautious if you come into contact with one of these animals. If you think you have a possum problem, the best course of action is to call a pest control professional who can safely remove the animal from your property.
Signs of Possum Infestation
If you think you may have a possum living in your home, there are some telltale signs to look out for:
1. Possums are nocturnal animals, so if you see one during the daytime, it’s likely that it has been disturbed and is looking for a way out.
2. Possums are good climbers, so if you see one on your roof or in your trees, it’s likely that it has made its way into your yard and is looking for a way into your home.
3. Possums are attracted to food sources, so if you find that your garbage cans have been toppled over or that there is evidence of scavenging in your yard, it’s likely that a possum is responsible.
4. Possums can make quite a mess when they nest inside homes, so if you find droppings or nesting material in your attic or crawlspace, it’s likely that you have an unwanted guest living in your home.
Prevention Strategies for Keeping Possums Away
When it comes to possums, the best defense is a good offense. There are a few key prevention strategies you can employ to keep these uninvited guests away from your home:
1. Keep your yard clean and free of potential food sources. This means regularly picking up any fallen fruit or nuts, trimming back overhanging branches, and keeping your garbage cans securely lidded.
2. Possums are attracted to areas that provide shelter and protection from predators. So, if you have any brush piles or dense vegetation on your property, consider removing them.
3. Install motion-activated lights or sprinklers around your home’s perimeter. These will startle possums and discourage them from hanging around.
4. Consider installing a fence around your property. A solid fence with an overhang will go a long way in keeping possums out.
Getting Rid of Possums: Humane and Lethal Removal Strategies
Possums are often considered to be pests, and as such, there are a number of ways to remove them from your property. Some methods are more humane than others, and some are more effective than others.
If you’re looking to get rid of possums in the most humane way possible, live trapping is probably your best bet. This involves setting up a trap with bait that will lure the possum inside, then releasing it far away from your home. While this method does take some time and patience, it’s the most gentle way to remove possums from your property.
If you’re looking for a more immediate solution, or if live trapping hasn’t worked for you, lethal removal is another option. This involves killing the possum outright, either by shooting it or using a trap that will crush or suffocate it. While this method is certainly not as humane as live trapping, it is often more effective in getting rid of possums quickly.
Cleaning Up After a Possum Infestation
If you have a possum infestation in your home, it’s important to clean up properly afterwards to prevent further infestations. Here are some tips on how to clean up after a possum infestation:
1. Possums can urinate and defecate anywhere, so it’s important to clean all areas that may have been contaminated by possum urine or feces. This includes washing any bedding or clothing that may have been in contact with possum waste.
2. Vacuum any areas where possums have been present. This will remove any hair, fur, or dander that could attract other possums.
3. Possums often leave behind a musky smell. To remove this scent, wash all surfaces that the possums came into contact with using a strong disinfectant or bleach solution.
4. Take measures to prevent future possum infestations by sealing up any openings or cracks in your home that the possums could use to enter. You should also consider installing Possum proofing around your property such as chicken wire or netting.
Final Thoughts: How to Prevent Further Problems with Uninvited Guests
If you’ve been having problems with possums in your home, there are a few things you can do to prevent further issues. First, make sure that all food is properly stored and not left out where the possums can get to it. Secondly, seal any gaps or holes in your home that the possums could use to get inside. If you have a pet door, make sure it is possum-proof by installing a flap or screen over it. By taking these precautionary measures, you can help keep possums out of your home for good.
Conclusion
Possums can be a nuisance in your home and garden, but there are ways to get rid of them without causing them any harm. Follow the tips discussed here to make sure that you have an effective possum management system in place and that they stay away from your property for good. With the right combination of exclusion techniques, pest control methods, and habitat modification, you will be able to keep these uninvited guests out of your home with minimal effort.