Wildlife Removal Company

The Problem of Opossums in Your Attic: What Homeowners Need to Know

Opossums are nocturnal creatures that are commonly found in North America, and while they play an important role in the ecosystem by controlling pests, they can quickly become a nuisance when they invade homes. If you’ve heard strange noises coming from your attic or noticed signs of wildlife activity, there’s a chance that an opossum may have taken up residence in your home. Here’s what homeowners need to know about opossums living in or near their attic, and how to deal with the situation safely and effectively.

Why Do Opossums Choose Attics as Their Home?

Opossums are opportunistic animals, meaning they will seek shelter in places that provide safety and easy access to food. Your attic offers the perfect combination of warmth, shelter, and isolation—an ideal spot for an opossum to nest and raise its young.

During colder months, opossums often look for places to hibernate or rest. If your attic has gaps, holes, or easy entry points, an opossum will find its way inside. Once inside, opossums will create nests using materials they can find, such as insulation, fabric, or even paper. They are also known to be quite adaptable, and an attic provides a quiet, undisturbed environment that allows them to thrive.

Signs of Opossums in the Attic

If you’re wondering whether you have an opossum living in your attic, look out for the following signs:

• Strange Noises: Opossums are nocturnal, so you’re most likely to hear scratching, scurrying, or thumping noises at night or early in the morning. These sounds may come from the attic or walls as the animal moves around.
• Droppings: Opossum droppings are often a sign of their presence. The droppings resemble those of other rodents but are generally larger and can contain seeds or undigested food.
• Damaged Insulation: Opossums are known to chew on insulation, wires, and wood in the attic. This can cause significant damage to the structure and lead to costly repairs.
• Odors: A strong, unpleasant odor coming from the attic may be a sign of an opossum infestation. Their waste can create a foul smell, and if the animal dies in the attic, the odor can be overpowering.

Dangers of Opossums in the Attic

While opossums are generally non-aggressive and do not pose an immediate threat to humans, having them in your attic can lead to several serious problems:

• Structural Damage: Opossums may chew on insulation, wires, and wooden beams, leading to significant damage to the structure of your home. Chewing on wires can also increase the risk of fires.
• Health Risks: Opossums are carriers of diseases like leptospirosis, tuberculosis, and parasites such as ticks and fleas. Their feces and urine can contaminate areas of your attic, creating health hazards for you and your family.
• Damage to Property: In addition to chewing on wires and insulation, opossums may also damage stored items in the attic, including boxes, clothing, or personal belongings.

How to Deal with Opossums in Your Attic

If you suspect that an opossum is living in your attic, it’s important to act quickly. Here’s how to address the situation:

1. Do Not Attempt to Remove the Opossum Yourself: Opossums may appear harmless, but they can become defensive if they feel threatened. They have sharp teeth and claws and may bite or scratch if provoked.
2. Contact a Wildlife Removal Professional: A trained wildlife control expert will know how to safely and humanely remove an opossum from your attic. They will also be familiar with local regulations regarding the handling and relocation of wildlife.
3. Seal Entry Points: Once the opossum has been removed, it’s crucial to identify and seal any gaps or holes that the animal may have used to enter the attic. A professional will be able to locate these entry points and prevent future infestations.
4. Clean and Sanitize the Attic: After removal, it’s important to clean and sanitize the attic to remove any waste or odors left behind by the opossum. This will help reduce the risk of disease and eliminate the smell that can attract other animals.
5. Consider Preventive Measures: Installing a chimney cap, covering vents with mesh screens, and trimming tree branches that hang close to your home can help prevent opossums and other wildlife from entering your attic in the future.

Conclusion

While opossums are a natural part of the ecosystem, they do not belong in your attic. If you’re hearing strange noises or noticing signs of an opossum infestation, it’s essential to take action before the situation worsens. By working with a professional wildlife control company, you can safely remove the opossum, prevent further damage to your property, and ensure your home remains free from these unwelcome visitors.