Despite their appearance, the closest relative of the possum (or the opossum, as it's correctly called in the Americas) is the kangaroo. The possum's ratlike appearance and habit of breaking and entering make this marsupial an unwelcome guest. Once it's inside, it can be a challenge to get a possum to surrender its newly gained turf. It is possible to remove them without resorting to poisons or snap-style traps, but it takes patience and ingenuity.
Have a Heart
Live, humane traps are the best way to remove an opossum without any mess. Havahart recommends a large, spring-loaded, two-door trap baited with cat food, fish, bacon or fresh vegetables. Coat the cat food or other bait in peanut butter for maximum distraction. Peanut butter sticks to the trip mechanism, making it more likely to spring closed while the animal is busy eating.
Prevent Conflicts
According to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, the best way to deal with an opossum that wanders into your home is to "...stay calm, close surrounding interior doors, leave the room, and let the animal find its own way out through the pet door or an open door or window." Opossums are usually not a threat to you or your pets, as they prefer to avoid conflict. They are extremely resistant to rabies, despite common fears.
Avoid Breeding Season
Opossums breed between January and July. If you trap opossums during these months, chances are high that babies may still be in the area. Opossums have as many as 25 babies, which are carried in the mother's pouch when first born.
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