how to get rid of opossum under deck

2 min read 07-02-2025

Opossums are common backyard visitors, often seeking shelter under decks. While generally harmless, their presence can be unsettling. This guide offers humane and effective solutions for removing opossums from under your deck and preventing their return.

Understanding Opossum Behavior

Before tackling the removal process, understanding opossum behavior is crucial. Opossums are nocturnal creatures, most active at night. They are attracted to food sources and safe, sheltered spaces like under decks. Knowing this helps in designing your removal strategy.

What Attracts Opossums to Your Deck?

Food sources: Pet food, fallen fruit, or unsecured garbage are major attractants.
Shelter: A dark, secluded space under your deck offers ideal protection from predators and the elements.
Nesting materials: They may use debris and nesting materials found under your deck to build dens.

Humane Opossum Removal Methods

Trapping and relocation are the most humane ways to remove opossums. Avoid harming or killing them, as they play a vital role in the ecosystem.

1. Live Trapping

Choose the right trap: Use a large, humane live trap designed for opossums. Avoid using snap traps, which can injure or kill them.
Bait the trap: Use strong-smelling bait like cat food, peanut butter, or sardines. Place the bait deep within the trap to encourage the opossum to enter fully.
Set the trap: Place the trap under your deck, near their access point. Ensure it's stable and secure.
Check the trap regularly: Check the trap frequently, at least once a day, especially at dawn.
Relocation: Once you've captured the opossum, transport it at least 5 miles away to a suitable habitat, like a wooded area, away from human habitation. Release it at night. Contact your local animal control or wildlife rehabilitation center for advice on appropriate relocation sites.

2. Exclusion

Once the opossum is removed, prevent future infestations by sealing off access points under your deck. This is crucial for long-term success.

Identify entry points: Carefully inspect your deck for gaps, cracks, or holes where opossums might be entering.
Seal openings: Use hardware cloth (metal mesh) to seal all gaps and openings. This prevents opossums from entering while still allowing for ventilation. Ensure the mesh is securely attached to prevent tearing.
Repair damaged areas: Repair any damaged wood or other materials that could provide entry points.

3. Removing Attractants

Eliminating food sources is essential to discourage opossums from returning.

Secure garbage cans: Use lids securely and store trash in a rodent-proof container.
Store pet food indoors: Don't leave pet food outside overnight.
Clean up fallen fruit: Regularly remove fallen fruit from your yard.

Addressing Odors

Opossums may leave behind a noticeable odor.

Clean up droppings: Wear gloves and a mask when cleaning up opossum droppings to avoid potential health risks. Dispose of waste properly.
Deodorize the area: Use a pet-safe enzymatic cleaner to eliminate odors. This helps prevent future infestations by masking scents that attract other animals.

When to Call a Professional

If you're uncomfortable handling live traps or dealing with a large infestation, contact a wildlife removal professional. They have the experience and tools to safely and effectively remove opossums.

Prevention is Key

Preventing opossums from taking up residence under your deck is the best approach. Regularly inspecting your deck and sealing potential entry points is crucial. Removing attractants and maintaining a clean yard also significantly reduce the chances of an opossum infestation. By implementing these strategies, you can coexist peacefully with wildlife while protecting your property.