5 of the Most Common Signs Your Home Has a Possum Infestation
Pest control is a major concern for any household, particularly those with small children or pets. Pests can spread disease and contaminate food, making them difficult to deal with once an infestation takes hold. While common pests like ants, cockroaches and termites are often the culprits, the situation becomes far more complex when rodents are involved, especially possums.
Possums are one of the most common pests in Australia, and they can be challenging to eliminate. Because possums are nocturnal animals, they're often not seen until it's too late, and they've already caused damage to your home. They can gnaw through electrical wires, tear insulation, and even contaminate food. For this reason, a homeowner must know the telltale signs of a possum's presence. These include:
#1 - Structural Damage
One of the most common signs of possum damage is structural damage to your home. Possums are known to gnaw on wood, so if you notice any new holes or chewing marks on any of the wooden parts of your home, a possum is likely responsible. Possums can also tear through insulation and drywall, so if you notice any rips or holes in these materials, it's also likely that a possum is responsible.
#2 - Droppings
Another common sign of possum infestation is droppings. Possums will often leave their droppings in the same area where they eat, so if you notice any small, dark-coloured droppings around your home, a possum is likely responsible. Possum droppings can often be found in cupboards, on countertops, or even on the floor.
When this happens, a foul odour is often present as well. Possums are also known to urinate inside homes, which may be another sign of their presence.
#3 - Dwindling Pet Food
If you have pets such as dogs or cats, possums may be attracted to their food. Since possums are nocturnal, they will often raid pet food bowls when your pets are asleep. If you start to notice a decrease in the amount of food your pet is eating, it's likely because a possum is eating it instead.
It's also worth noting that possums are drawn to cat food because it's often made with tuna, which possums love. If your cat eats this food, keep it in a sealed container to prevent possums from accessing it.
#4 - Loud Scratching Noises
Possums are notorious for scratching their claws on almost anything, particularly when they’re trying to climb. If you hear loud scratching noises in your attic or crawl space, it’s often a sign that a possum is attempting to get inside. They’re also known to scratch at doors and windows while trying to gain access to a home.
#5 - Odd Animal Vocalisations
Even if you don’t hear scratching, possums are known for making loud vocalisations that can sound like fighting or hissing. These noises are most commonly heard at night and can sometimes resemble growling, which can be quite alarming if you’re not expecting it.
Handling a Possum Infestation
A possum infestation is never easy to handle because they are protected animals in Australia, meaning it's illegal to harm or kill them. Possums are also very good at hiding and are often hard to find, complicating matters further. However, this doesn't mean you can't catch and relocate them. You can try sealing up all the possible entry points so they can't get back in or use possum-proof fencing to keep them out. Alternatively, you can also use a live trap to catch them.
You can always hire a professional pest control company if all else fails. The service providers will be able to inspect your property and determine the best course of action. They will also be able to provide you with more information on how to keep possums away.
Possum Removal Geelong
A possum infestation is problematic for any home because of the potential damage it can cause. Because of this, a homeowner should take action as soon as possible if they think they have a possum infestation. When you do, your home will be safer, and you can rest assured that your family is not at risk for any diseases that possums may carry.
D-Day Pest Control provides top-quality services for possum removal in Geelong. Our pest control professionals use safe methods to ensure your home remains safe and secure. Give us a call on 0400 031 422 or request a quote online.
