Possums, often confused with their Australian counterparts, the opossums, are small to medium-sized marsupials that are native to the Americas. They play an essential role in the ecosystem but can sometimes conflict with human residents. This Is because they invade spaces for food or shelter. In this article, we will learn more about possums, where they live, if possums live in trees, and why they are good climbers.
Let’s learn more!
What is a Possum?
A possum is a nocturnal marsupial known for its ability to adapt and survive in various environments. Unlike other mammals, female possums carry and nurse their young in a pouch until they are old enough to venture out on their own.
Do Possums Live in Trees?
Yes, possums are arboreal, meaning they are tree-dwelling creatures. They are commonly found in the branches of trees, where they seek refuge and build nests known as dreys.
Where Else Do Possums Live?
Apart from living in trees, possums also make their homes in other safe locations such as brush piles, under decks, and in the attics or garages of houses, especially in suburban settings. Possums have adapted to a wide variety of habitats, including urban areas, which offer them plentiful resources. They are highly adaptable creatures that thrive in woodland areas, open fields, and wetlands.
Why are Possums Good Climbers?
We know that possums can live in trees and they are excellent climbers due to their sharp claws, dexterous tails, and opposable thumbs on their hind feet, all of which aid in gripping and scaling vertical structures. The opposable thumbs on a possum’s hind feet, akin to a human’s thumb, allow for superior grasping abilities, making it easier for them to grab branches, climb, and maintain stability aloft.
Why do Possums Climb Trees and Structures?
Possums climb trees and structures primarily to escape predators, search for food, and establish secure nesting sites away from the reach of ground-based dangers.
The Possum Diet
Possums are opportunistic omnivores with a diverse palate, which means they eat a wide range of foods. Their diet typically includes:
- Fruits and Vegetables: Possums enjoy eating fruits such as apples, pears, peaches, and bananas. They also consume a variety of vegetables if available.
- Insects and Small Animals: They feed on insects like beetles, cockroaches, and crickets, as well as small animals including mice, snails, and worms.
- Pet Food: In urban areas, possums often eat pet food left outside.
- Garbage: They are known to rummage through trash cans in search of edible scraps.
- Carrion: Possums will eat the carcasses of dead animals, which helps to keep an area clean.
- Bird Eggs and Nestlings: Occasionally, they may raid bird nests for eggs or young birds.
Their adaptable diet is one reason why possums can thrive in various environments, from dense forests to urban backyards.
Possum Prevention
To deter possums, secure garbage cans, pick up fallen fruit, seal entry points to your home, remove brush piles, and use motion-activated lights or sprinklers to scare them off.
Other Pest Information
Now that you know about possums, let’s learn about other information about pests.
One is if possums are a threat to dogs. The answer is no. Possums are very docile and will usually run away. However, if they feel threatened, they may scratch, bite, or fight.
Another is raccoons washing their food. They don’t wash it, but instead, they put their paws into the water as it helps with their sense of touch. Raccoons like to eat human garbage, small animals, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and insects.
Lastly, rats can climb walls. They have sharp claws that allow them to grip the walls and other surfaces. Rats like to climb so they can find food and unfortunately, also get into your home.
When Do I Call a Professional?
A professional should be contacted when you have persistent possum issues that cannot be resolved through preventative measures. Another reason may be if there is a risk of injury either to the animal or to humans during removal.
Check out the video below and decide for yourself if possums are good or bad.
Conclusion
Understanding and respecting the habits of possums is crucial for coexisting with these marsupials. By knowing more about their behavior and habitat preferences, homeowners can take proactive steps to mitigate conflicts with these nocturnal creatures while appreciating the role they play in the environment. Reach out to AAA pest control to get your possums and other pest issues under control in Oakland Park, FL, and the surrounding South Florida areas.