What to Do If a Possum is Under Your Deck

Discovering a possum under your deck can be an unsettling experience. These nocturnal creatures, also known as opossums, are common in North America and are often found in urban areas, seeking shelter in dark, dry spaces like decks. Before you panic or attempt to remove the possum yourself, it's crucial to understand how to handle this situation safely and humanely. Here's a comprehensive guide on what to do if a possum is under your deck.

Possums are generally solitary and shy creatures, preferring to avoid human contact. They are more likely to play dead (a defense mechanism known as "playing possum") than attack. However, they can carry diseases like rabies, and their sharp teeth and claws can cause injuries if they feel threatened. Therefore, it's essential to approach the situation with caution and care.

Understanding Possums and Their Habits

Possums are opportunistic omnivores, feeding on a variety of foods including insects, fruits, and small animals. They are active at night and spend the day resting in their dens. Possums are also excellent climbers and can scale trees and fences with ease. Understanding their habits can help you anticipate their behavior and take appropriate action.

Possums are also known for their unique way of deterring predators. When threatened, they may bare their teeth, growl, and even hiss. However, their most famous defense mechanism is "playing possum," where they enter a catatonic state, drooling and emitting a foul odor to mimic death. This can last from a few minutes to several hours, making it crucial not to disturb a possum in this state.

Identifying the Possum Species

There are several possum species in North America, but the most common is the Virginia Opossum (Didelphis virginiana). Adult Virginia Opossums are about the size of a domestic cat, with a long, pointed snout, rounded ears, and a long, prehensile tail. They have a distinctive white face with a black leathery nose and ears. Their fur is typically a mix of gray and black, with a white patch on their chest.

Other possum species, like the Southern Opossum (Didelphis albiventris) and the Northern Opossum (Didelphis marsupialis), are less common and have slightly different appearances. However, the identification process remains similar, focusing on size, tail length, and facial features.

Assessing the Possum's Condition

Before attempting to remove the possum, it's essential to assess its condition. If the possum is active and moving around, it's likely healthy and can be safely removed. However, if it's playing dead or appears injured or sick, do not attempt to handle it. Instead, contact a local wildlife rehabilitator or animal control immediately.

Possums can give birth to litters of up to 13 joeys (baby possums), which they carry in their pouches. If you suspect the possum under your deck is a mother with joeys, do not attempt to remove it. Mother possums will not leave their young unless they feel threatened, and separating them can be detrimental to the joeys' survival.

Safely Removing the Possum from Under Your Deck

If the possum under your deck is healthy and active, you can attempt to remove it safely. However, always prioritize the possum's safety and well-being, as well as your own. Here are some steps to follow:

1. **Wait Until Nightfall**: Possums are nocturnal, so they are most active at night. Wait until dusk to attempt removal, as the possum will be more likely to leave its den on its own.

Using Noise and Light to Encourage the Possum to Leave

Possums prefer dark, quiet spaces. Using noise and light can encourage the possum to leave its den under your deck. Here's how:

• Turn on bright lights under and around your deck.
• Make noise using a radio, a shaker can, or a loud noise maker. Place the source of the noise near the possum's den.
• Be patient. It may take some time for the possum to leave its den. Keep the lights on and the noise going for at least an hour.

Physical Removal (As a Last Resort)

If the possum does not leave its den after using noise and light, you may need to physically remove it. However, this should be a last resort, as it can be dangerous and stressful for both you and the possum. Always wear thick gloves and long sleeves to protect yourself from bites and scratches.

• Use a long-handled tool, like a broom or a pole with a hook, to gently nudge the possum out of its den.
• If the possum is playing dead, do not attempt to move it. Wait for it to revive naturally. If it doesn't move after several hours, contact a wildlife rehabilitator.
• Once the possum is out of its den, it should move away on its own. If it doesn't, use the broom or pole to guide it away from your deck.

Preventing Future Possum Visits

Once the possum has been removed, it's essential to take steps to prevent future visits. Possums are attracted to decks because they provide shelter and can be a source of food. Here's how to make your deck less appealing to possums:

Eliminating Food Sources

Possums are omnivores and will feed on a variety of foods. To eliminate food sources around your deck, follow these steps:

• Secure trash cans and compost bins with tight-fitting lids.
• Remove fallen fruits and vegetables from your garden regularly.
• Do not leave pet food outside overnight.
• Clean up bird feeders regularly to prevent seed buildup.

Making Your Deck Less Accessible

Possums are excellent climbers, but there are ways to make your deck less accessible to them:

• Install motion-activated lights or sprinklers to deter possums from approaching your deck.
• Trim trees and shrubs away from your deck to eliminate potential entry points.
• Install a fence around your deck, ensuring it's tall enough and has no gaps that a possum could squeeze through.

Possums play a crucial role in their ecosystems, feeding on insects, rodents, and other small animals. By understanding their habits and taking humane steps to deter them, you can coexist peacefully with these fascinating creatures. If you find a possum under your deck, remember to approach the situation with caution, care, and a commitment to the possum's well-being. After all, every possum deserves a safe and happy home, just not under your deck!