Wildlife Removal Company

The Dangers of Opossums: Why Homeowners Should Be Aware

Opossums are nocturnal creatures that are often overlooked when it comes to wildlife infestations. However, these seemingly harmless animals can cause a variety of issues for homeowners, especially when they decide to take up residence on your property or in your home. In this article, we’ll explore the potential dangers opossums can pose and why it’s important to act quickly if you suspect an infestation.

Why Opossums Seek Shelter in Your Home

Opossums are opportunistic creatures and will seek shelter in places that provide warmth and safety. They often make their homes in attics, basements, crawl spaces, and even under decks. These areas provide the perfect environment for opossums to raise their young or find refuge from predators.

Health Risks Posed by Opossums

While opossums may look harmless, they carry a number of health risks that homeowners should be aware of:

1. Disease Transmission
   Opossums are known to be carriers of several diseases that can affect humans, pets, and livestock:

   • Leptospirosis – A bacterial infection that can be transmitted through urine, causing symptoms like fever, headache, and in some cases, liver damage.
   • Tuberculosis – Opossums can carry the bacteria that causes tuberculosis, which is dangerous if inhaled.
   • Salmonella and E. coli – Opossums can spread these bacteria through their feces, leading to foodborne illnesses.
   • Parasites – Opossums often carry fleas, ticks, and mites, which can infest your home and spread diseases like Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

2. Rabies
   Although opossums are less likely to contract rabies compared to other animals, it is still a possibility. Rabies can be transmitted to pets or humans if bitten or scratched by an infected opossum.

Property Damage from Opossums

Opossums are notorious for causing damage to homes and properties when they take up residence:

1. Chewing and Gnawing
   Opossums will gnaw on wires, insulation, and wood, potentially leading to significant damage. This can be particularly dangerous if they chew through electrical wiring, increasing the risk of electrical fires.

2. Structural Damage
   Opossums are excellent climbers and can easily get into attics or crawl spaces through small holes. Once inside, they often tear up insulation, chew on wood and drywall, and damage the structure of the home. Their large nests can also lead to water damage if they disrupt roof vents or gutters.

3. Foul Odors and Waste
   Opossums will often leave behind droppings, urine, and nesting materials, which can create unpleasant odors and even attract other pests. Over time, their waste can cause health hazards, and cleaning up their mess can be a costly and time-consuming task.

Why DIY Solutions Don’t Work

While some homeowners may attempt to handle opossum infestations themselves, it is rarely a successful long-term solution. Here’s why:

1. Opossums are Resilient – They are skilled at finding their way back into homes and may be difficult to trap without the right knowledge and equipment.

2. Safety Concerns – Opossums can be aggressive when cornered and may bite or scratch, increasing the risk of disease transmission, especially if the animal is rabid or infected with parasites.

3. Legal Protections – In many states, opossums are protected by wildlife laws, and removing them without proper permits could lead to fines or legal trouble.

How Professional Opossum Removal Can Help

When it comes to dealing with an opossum infestation, a professional wildlife removal service is your best option. Here’s how experts can help:

1. Humane Trapping and Removal
   Wildlife removal specialists are trained to safely and humanely trap and relocate opossums. They will use techniques that prevent harm to the animals and ensure they are released in appropriate areas far from your home.

2. Exclusion Services
   Once the opossums are removed, professionals will identify potential entry points and seal them to prevent future infestations. This can include repairing holes, reinforcing vents, and securing crawl spaces.

3. Sanitization and Cleanup
   Experts will also clean and sanitize the affected areas, removing droppings, urine, and other contaminants that can create health risks. This thorough cleanup helps eliminate odors and reduces the chance of other pests moving in.

4. Damage Repair
   If the opossums have caused damage to your property, a wildlife removal service can assist with repairs, whether it’s replacing insulation, fixing roof damage, or addressing any structural issues.

Conclusion: Protect Your Home from Opossums

While opossums may seem like a minor nuisance at first, they can quickly turn into a significant problem for homeowners. From health risks to property damage, opossums pose several dangers that should not be underestimated. If you suspect an opossum infestation in your home, it’s important to contact a professional wildlife removal service as soon as possible. They can ensure that your home is safely cleared of opossums, properly sealed, and protected from future infestations. Don’t wait for the damage to escalate—take action now to protect your home, your family, and your peace of mind.