Opossum Welcome to Pest Control
Characteristics of opossums:Adult opossums are about the size of a large cat. They have long, light gray hair, a pink pointed snout, with a bald tail which is about half the length of its body. They can grow to 2.5 ft, and weigh around 8 - 13 pounds. The lifespan of an opossum is typically 2 to 4 years, since it is killed by many predators humans (cars), dogs, cats, owls and larger wildlife.
Habits and Lifestyle:Opossums are resting by day and active at night. They live in tree hollows, garages, underneath buildings, and inside dugouts. They choose to live in a den close to a food source so it requires less travel which lessens their risk of predation because they are slow moving creatures. They are excellent tree climbers and will typically spend most of their times in the trees close to their dens. Opossums are omnivores, meaning they eat both animal and vegetative produce.
Opossums are not considered aggressive rather they are famous for "playing dead". When in danger, they will fall onto their sides and lie on the ground with their eyes closed or staring fixedly at nothing. They even throw out their tongues to try to appear even further along in the rigor of death all in the hope that the danger will pass by. This tactic may confuse a predator allowing the opossum an opportunity to make its escape. Unfortunately, a car will just keep coming which is why so many dead possums are seen on the roadside. Are Opossums Dangerous?Even though they seem threatening when baring their teeth and hissing, opossums are usually gentle. It is quite rare when opossums attack and they only do so as a last resort to defend themselves. Rabies are extremely rare with an opossum which is mainly due to the fact that it naturally has a low body temperature, making it difficult for the virus to survive in an opossum's body.
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Infestation Signs:
Most homeowners first notice opossums around their garbage cans or hear them in the attic. These mammals are scavengers, they often raid garbage cans, dumpsters, and bird feeders. Even though they eat nuts and fruits, opossums also hunt mice, birds, snakes, and even chickens. Opossums will damage lawns, since they dig around for grubs for a food source. The best way to keep them from messing up the garbage can is to have a metal trash container with a good seal.
Contact Mechanicsville Pest Control for an evaluation for an opossums eviction. We can safely and humanly relocate your little intruder to a place they will not cause any damage to your property.
Contact Mechanicsville Pest Control for an evaluation for an opossums eviction. We can safely and humanly relocate your little intruder to a place they will not cause any damage to your property.