Possums are fascinating creatures that can be found in various parts of the world, including North and South America, Australia, and some regions of Europe. These unique marsupials have distinct features and behaviors that set them apart from other animals. One common question homeowners often have is, do possums live in trees? They can live in trees because they love to climb, but they also live in burrows, dens, attics, and crawl spaces.
What is a Possum?
Before delving into whether possums live in trees or not, let’s first understand what exactly a possum is. Possums are marsupials that belong to the group of mammals known as Phalangeridae. They have a distinctive appearance with their large round ears, elongated snouts, sharp claws, and prehensile tails. These creatures are primarily nocturnal, which means they are most active during the night, and they play a vital ecological role in maintaining the balance of their respective ecosystems.
Do Possums Live in Trees?
Yes, possums are highly skilled climbers and are well adapted to living in trees. They are arboreal creatures, which means they spend a significant amount of time in trees, utilizing their strong limbs and sharp claws to navigate through the branches. While possums are adept at climbing, they are not exclusively tree-dwelling animals. They also seek refuge in other areas such as burrows, dens, and even attics or crawl spaces in houses.
Where Do Possums Live?
Possums are versatile creatures when it comes to their habitat. They can be found in a variety of environments, including forests, woodlands, farmlands, and suburban areas. Possums are particularly attracted to places with an abundant supply of food and shelter. Their nests, called dreys, are usually built in tree hollows, leaf piles, and dense vegetation. These cozy shelters provide them with the safety and warmth they need.
Why Do Possums Climb Trees?
Possums have evolved to be excellent climbers for several reasons. One primary reason is to escape from predators. Climbing up a tree allows possums to reach higher ground, making it more challenging for potential threats to reach them. By retreating to the safety of trees, they can avoid encounters with predators such as dogs, foxes, and large birds.
Additionally, climbing trees aids possums in their search for food. Their nimble climbing abilities enable them to access fruits, berries, and tender shoots that are abundant in the upper reaches of trees. This adaptation gives them a competitive advantage over ground-dwelling animals when it comes to foraging for sustenance.
What Do Possums Eat?
Possums are opportunistic omnivores, meaning they have a diverse diet that includes both plant matter and small animals. Their diet primarily consists of fruits, leaves, nectar, insects, small mammals, birds’ eggs, and even carrion. Possums are known to scavenge for food, making them valuable contributors to ecosystems by helping to clean up decaying matter.
How Can I Keep Possums Out of My Yard?
While possums play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance, they can sometimes become a nuisance when they invade our yards. Here are some effective tips to help keep possums away:
- Secure garbage cans: Possums love food waste, so ensure your trash bins have tight-fitting lids.
- Remove potential food sources: Clear fallen fruits, nuts, and bird feeders that may attract possums.
- Seal entry points: Block any potential entry points to your home, such as gaps in fences and openings in attics or crawl spaces.
- Install motion-activated lights and sprinklers: These deterrents can startle possums and discourage them from entering your yard.
- Use repellents: Natural repellents like vinegar, garlic, and ammonia can help deter possums.
Check out the video below about where possums live during the day.
Other Recommended Maintenance
Now that you know about possums, let’s learn about some recommended maintenance.
One area 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.
Lastly, rats can climb walls. They have sharp claws that allow them to grip the walls and other surfaces.
When to Call a Professional
If despite your best efforts, possums continue to invade your property or become a persistent problem, it may be time to call a professional wildlife control service. AAA Pest Control are experts who are equipped with the knowledge and tools to safely and humanely remove possums from your premises, ensuring the well-being of both you and the possums themselves.
Conclusion
Possums are indeed skilled climbers and can often be found living in trees. However, they are not exclusively tree-dwelling creatures and utilize various habitats for shelter and survival. Understanding their behaviors and preferences can help homeowners coexist peacefully with these fascinating marsupials while taking necessary steps to minimize any potential conflicts.
By implementing preventive measures and seeking professional assistance when needed, you can achieve a harmonious balance between humans and possums in your 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.
