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Possum

Didelphis marsupialis

Possum (also spelled opossum) are North America's only marsupial, meaning the babies live in their mother's pouch. Females carry the young in their pouch until they are 2-3 months old, then the young are carried on the mothers back another 1 to 2 months when away from the den. Possum prefer to avoid all confrontation and be left alone, however a mother with young may attack if she feels the babies are threatened. They are well known for a defense mechanism of acting dead when threatened in hopes that it's predator will get bored and retreat; also known as "playing possum".

Possum are similar to the size of a housecat weighing in between 8 to 14 pounds. They are grey to black in color with black eyes and ears. The feet and tail are pink and they have a pointed pink nose. Tails are similar to a monkey, allowing them use it for grasping, climbing and balance. They have 50 teeth; more than any other mammal in North America. Mating season is generally from January to July. Each female will produce about 7 babies, with 2-3 litters per year. Babies are approximately the size of a quarter at birth. Gestation is only about 2 weeks.

They are nocturnal animals and omnivorous, opportunistic feeders; eating just about anything including insects, rodents, berries, fruits, grasses and leaves, snakes, vegetables, grains and pet foods. They are also commonly found foraging for food sources in and around garbage containers.

These animals do not hibernate but do become very inactive in harsh winter weather. In a natural setting they create their dens from anything they can, from tree cavities to brush piles. They are often found in trees, near streams or swamps, or invading home structures. Possum tend to prefer sheltered areas to live. They can fit into any opening their head will fit through. This allows them to invade areas of a home structure such as crawlspaces, attics, chimneys and wall voids.

Invasion of possum in human living space is less than desirable for many reasons. These animals can carry roundworm, mites, ticks, fleas and parasites that can affect human health. One of the biggest health threats they present to man is rabies, therefore humans should always avoid contact with them. These mammals can be very destructive to property as well. They can shred ductwork, damage or destroy insulation, chew on structure wiring, and cause health and sanitation issues due to excrement they leave.

Important prevention measures include:

1. Remove available food sources. If pets are fed outdoors, be sure to remove leftover food by nightfall. Make sure all trash receptacles have tight fitting lids and can not be knocked over.
2. Keep yard debris cleaned up in order to eliminate den nesting materials.
3. Seal any openings into the structure (including chimney areas) that could offer an entrance into the structure; keeping in mind that if the opossum can fit its head through it is considered an access point.

While these preventative measures may help, if you have an infestation and need help with control, a call to Long Pest Control can develop an Integrated Pest Control program to eliminate the sightings and provide an environment free of unwanted pests year round.