Possums are nocturnal creatures that, although often cute, can become a significant problem when they invade your home or property. Their presence in urban areas has increased, and their ability to adapt to human environments often leads them to seek shelter in attics, under decks, or inside walls. While these animals may appear harmless at first, they can cause considerable damage and pose serious health risks to you, your family, and your pets. If you’re experiencing a possum infestation, it’s important to act quickly. Waiting too long can lead to severe consequences, including property damage, health risks, and more. In this blog, we’ll explore the reasons why you shouldn’t wait to call a professional for possum removal and relocation services. From the damage these pests can cause to the dangers they pose to your health, you’ll understand why timely intervention is crucial.
What is a Possum Infestation?
A possum infestation refers to a situation where a large number of possums take up residence in or around your property. These marsupials are opportunistic creatures, meaning they will take advantage of any environment that provides food, shelter, and water. Possums are excellent climbers and can squeeze into very small openings, making them challenging to spot until they have already settled in. You may not notice an infestation immediately, but signs often become apparent when possums start to leave behind evidence of their presence. Some common signs of a possum infestation include:- Noises in the attic or walls during the night
- Damage to insulation, wires, or roofing
- Feces or urine around the property
- Signs of gnawing or chewing on pipes or electrical wires
- A strong, musky odor
Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Call a Professional
1. Health and Safety Risks
Possums are carriers of numerous diseases that can be harmful to humans and pets. One of the most concerning health risks is leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that can be transmitted through possum urine. This infection can cause flu-like symptoms and, in severe cases, lead to organ damage or failure. Possums can also transmit parasites like ticks, fleas, and lice, which can be transferred to your pets or even yourself. In addition to these risks, possums may also create unsanitary living conditions. As they inhabit your attic or crawl spaces, they often leave behind feces, urine, and food scraps, which can attract other pests such as rats or insects. These conditions can quickly become a breeding ground for bacteria and mold, further compromising the health of your household. A professional possum removal and relocation service ensures that the animal is removed safely, and the affected areas are disinfected to eliminate health risks.2. Damage to Your Property
Possums are notorious for damaging property. Their strong jaws and sharp teeth enable them to chew through wires, insulation, and even wood. When they move into your attic or roof, they can cause significant damage to the structure of your home. They may gnaw on electrical wires, which increases the risk of fires. Their presence can also lead to leaks in the roof or other structural issues due to the damage they cause when burrowing or nesting. If left unchecked, a possum infestation can result in costly repairs. The longer you wait to address the problem, the more damage will occur, leading to more expensive repairs in the long run. Calling a professional for possum removal and relocation services ensures that the animals are removed quickly and the damage is minimized.3. Possum Nests and Breeding
Possums tend to build nests in warm, sheltered locations, such as attics, crawl spaces, or basements. These nests can become a breeding ground for more possums, which leads to a larger infestation over time. Possums reproduce quickly, and each female can give birth to multiple babies during a breeding season. If you ignore the problem and don’t call a professional for removal, the infestation can grow exponentially. A small possum problem can easily turn into a major issue with multiple possums living in your home or property. By acting promptly, you prevent this from happening and ensure the possums are relocated before they have the chance to breed and multiply.4. Possums Can Be Aggressive
While possums are generally shy animals, they can become aggressive if they feel threatened or cornered. If you attempt to remove a possum on your own, you run the risk of being scratched, bitten, or injured. Possums have sharp claws and teeth, and their bites can transmit bacteria that cause infections. Trying to handle a possum without the proper knowledge or equipment can be dangerous to both you and the animal. Professional possum removal specialists are trained to handle these situations safely. They have the right equipment and expertise to capture the possums without harm to you, your family, or the animals themselves. By hiring a professional, you ensure the job is done safely and efficiently.5. Local Laws and Regulations
In many areas, it is illegal to harm or kill possums due to animal protection laws. If you attempt to handle a possum infestation on your own, you could accidentally break local wildlife laws. Professional possum removal services are familiar with these regulations and will ensure that the animals are handled in a humane and lawful manner. These professionals are also knowledgeable about local ordinances and can take care of permits or licenses necessary for trapping or relocating possums, making the process smoother and legally compliant for you.6. Long-Term Solutions
A professional possum removal and relocation service not only removes the animals but also offers long-term solutions to prevent future infestations. This may include inspecting your property for entry points, such as holes in the roof, gaps around vents, or cracks in the foundation, and sealing them to prevent possums from re-entering. Additionally, professionals can offer advice on how to make your property less attractive to possums, such as removing food sources (like pet food or garbage) and trimming back trees that provide easy access to your roof. With a long-term strategy in place, you can avoid dealing with future possum infestations.The Benefits of Professional Possum Removal and Relocation Services
When dealing with a possum infestation, hiring a professional for removal and relocation services offers numerous benefits:- Expertise: Professionals are trained to handle possum infestations safely and effectively. They know how to remove possums without causing harm to the animals or your property.
- Efficiency: Possum removal services are equipped with the tools and knowledge to handle the problem quickly, ensuring that the animals are removed with minimal disruption to your daily life.
- Safety: Dealing with possums can be dangerous. Professionals ensure that the job is done safely, without risking injury to you, your family, or the animals.
- Humane Practices: Professional possum removal services follow humane relocation methods, ensuring that possums are safely removed from your property and relocated to a more suitable environment.
- Long-Term Solutions: Beyond removal, experts will provide advice and services to prevent future infestations, ensuring that your home remains possum-free.
