1. How do I know if I have an opossum on my property?

Opossums are nocturnal scavengers, so they are most active at night. If you frequently see an opossum in your yard, notice knocked-over trash cans, pet food disappearing, or signs of digging around your home, you may have one living nearby. Opossums also make their dens in crawl spaces, under decks, sheds, and garages, so if you hear rustling noises at night in these areas, it could indicate an opossum infestation. Other signs include tracks with opposable thumbs, unusual droppings, and a strong ammonia-like odor from urine if they have taken shelter indoors.

2. Are opossums dangerous to humans and pets?

Opossums are generally not aggressive and prefer to avoid confrontations. However, they can carry parasites like fleas, ticks, and mites, which can spread to pets and humans. While they have a reputation for carrying rabies, opossums have a low body temperature, which makes it difficult for the virus to survive in their system. The main concern with opossums is property damage and the risk of disease transmission through their droppings and urine, which can carry leptospirosis and salmonella. If an opossum feels threatened, it may play dead as a defense mechanism, making it appear lifeless even when it’s perfectly healthy.

3. What attracts opossums to my home in Michigan?

Opossums are opportunistic feeders that eat almost anything, making them a common nuisance in both urban and rural areas. They are attracted to accessible food sources, including pet food left outside, unsecured garbage, compost piles, fallen fruit from trees, and even birdseed. Opossums also seek out sheltered nesting spots in attics, garages, sheds, and under porches. If your property has abundant food sources and easy access to shelter, opossums may decide to stick around. Removing these attractants and securing potential den sites can help prevent an opossum infestation.

4. How do professionals remove opossums from homes?

Wildlife removal experts use humane and effective methods to safely remove opossums from homes and businesses. The process typically begins with a thorough inspection to locate the opossum’s den and entry points. Live trapping is commonly used, where professionals set up baited traps to capture the opossum without harm. If an opossum is inside a structure, one-way exclusion devices may be installed to allow the animal to leave while preventing re-entry. After removal, professionals will seal entry points, clean up waste, and sanitize the affected area to prevent further infestations.

5. Is it legal to trap and relocate opossums in Michigan?

Yes, but Michigan has specific laws regarding opossum removal. According to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR), property owners or licensed wildlife removal specialists are allowed to trap opossums if they are causing damage. However, relocating opossums more than one mile away is prohibited, as it can disrupt local ecosystems and spread disease. Additionally, trapping regulations vary depending on location, and some areas may require special permits. To ensure compliance with Michigan’s wildlife laws, it is best to hire a licensed professional for opossum removal.

6. How can I prevent opossums from coming back?

Preventing opossums from returning requires sealing off potential den sites and removing food sources. Start by securing garbage cans with tight-fitting lids, bringing pet food indoors at night, and removing compost piles or fallen fruit that may attract them. Inspect your home for gaps, broken vents, or openings under porches and sheds, and seal these areas with steel mesh or hardware cloth. Installing motion-activated lights or sprinklers can also help deter opossums. Regular property maintenance and seasonal inspections will reduce the chances of future infestations.

7. When are opossums most active in Michigan?

Opossums are active year-round, but their activity increases in spring and summer when they search for food and nesting sites. Breeding season occurs from February to June, meaning pregnant opossums may seek shelter in attics, crawl spaces, or under decks. During colder months, opossums remain active but may seek warm indoor areas more frequently. If you notice opossum activity near your home, it’s best to address the problem before breeding season to prevent a larger infestation.

8. How much does opossum removal cost in Michigan?

The cost of professional opossum removal varies based on factors such as the number of opossums, the complexity of removal, and whether exclusion or cleanup services are required. On average, opossum removal services in Michigan range from $200 to $600, with prices increasing if attic restoration, odor removal, or extensive damage repair is needed. Many wildlife control companies offer free or low-cost inspections to assess the situation and provide a customized quote. Hiring a licensed and experienced wildlife removal expert ensures the process is handled legally, humanely, and effectively.