The 5 Best Possum Traps of 2024 – Humane & Effective Solutions

After testing dozens of traps, we’ve found the top 5 possum traps that actually work in 2024. The Havahart Large 1-Door (Model 1085) leads the pack with its one-hand release design and injury-free capture.

The Heavy Duty Folding Trap offers convenient storage, while the ANT MARCH’s smaller mesh prevents escape artists.

For budget shoppers, the Heavy Duty Live Animal Trap and Kensizer Humane Rat Trap get the job done – though you might need replacements sooner. We’ve rated these based on durability, ease of use, and humane handling features.

Stick around – there’s way more to catching these clever critters than just picking any old trap.

Essential Insights

• Havahart Large 1-Door Live Animal Trap leads as the top choice with patented one-hand operation and galvanized wire mesh construction.
• ANT MARCH Live Animal Cage Trap offers superior size dimensions (32×11.5×13 inches) and smaller mesh openings to prevent escapes.
• Heavy-duty steel construction with rust-resistant coating is essential for long-lasting effectiveness in outdoor trapping conditions.
• Spring-loaded doors and sensitive trigger mechanisms ensure quick, secure captures while preventing injury to trapped animals.
• Legal compliance requires checking local regulations and obtaining proper permits before purchasing and using possum traps.

Havahart Large 1-Door Live Animal Trap (Model 1085)

For homeowners seeking a humane solution to possum problems, the Havahart Large 1-Door Live Animal Trap (Model 1085) stands out with its patent-pending one-hand set-and-release design. You won’t need an engineering degree to figure this one out – just set it and forget it (well, not literally).

The galvanized wire mesh construction means this trap will outlast your possum problem. And trust us, those smaller mesh openings will keep your unwanted guest from throwing a midnight buffet with your bait.

Key Features:

• Spring-loaded door that snaps shut faster than your teenager’s bedroom door
• Smooth internal edges (because nobody wants a lawsuit from an angry possum)
• Rigid plastic handle to keep those sharp claws far from your hands

Pro Tip: Bait it with chicken entrails, sardines, or cat food. And yes, you’ll want to place it at dusk – possums aren’t exactly early birds.

Remember: Check local regulations before relocating your new friend. The last thing you need is a game warden showing up at your door.

Best For: Homeowners and property managers looking for a humane, effective way to capture and relocate medium-sized nuisance animals like possums, raccoons, and stray cats without causing harm.

Pros:

• Patent-pending one-hand set-and-release mechanism makes operation simple and safe
• Durable galvanized wire mesh construction with reinforced steel for long-lasting use
• Smaller mesh openings and sensitive trigger mechanism prevent bait theft and escape

Cons:

• Single-door design may be less effective for particularly cautious animals
• Requires frequent monitoring to ensure trapped animals aren’t left in extreme conditions
• May need local permits or professional consultation for certain protected species

Heavy Duty Folding Live Animal Trap Cage for Small Animals

Homeowners seeking a versatile and humane solution will appreciate this heavy-duty folding trap cage’s adaptability to various small animals. At 23.3 x 7.24 x 7.72 inches, it’s perfect for catching everything from mice to possums – because who doesn’t love a trap that doesn’t play favorites?

This bad boy means business with its heavy-duty steel construction and rust-resistant wire mesh. You’ll love these features:

• Smooth internal edges (no more guilty conscience about injured critters)
• Handle guard to keep your fingers safe (because tetanus shots aren’t fun)
• Smaller mesh openings that’ll stop sneaky bait thieves
• Trigger-sensitive pedal that snaps shut faster than you can say “gotcha”

Pro Tip: The foldable design means you won’t need a storage shed just for your trap collection.

Got concerns? There’s a 30-day refund policy and 3-year warranty backing you up. That’s longer than most relationships these days!

Best For: Homeowners and property managers looking for a humane, reusable solution to capture and relocate various small nuisance animals without causing harm.

Pros:

• Heavy-duty steel construction with rust-resistant coating ensures long-term durability
• Versatile size accommodates multiple species from mice to possums
• Foldable design makes storage and transport convenient

Cons:

• May be too large for catching just mice or very small rodents
• Requires regular maintenance to ensure trigger mechanism works properly
• Higher price point compared to single-use or smaller traps

ANT MARCH Live Animal Cage Trap (32×11.5×13 Steel)

If you’re seeking a versatile and humane solution for wildlife control, the ANT MARCH Live Animal Cage Trap stands out with its impressive 32×11.5×13-inch steel construction. This rust-resistant beast weighs in at 9.3 pounds and won’t turn into a rusty mess after one rainy season.

Key features you’ll actually care about:

• Smaller mesh openings – because nobody wants their catch pulling a Houdini
• Spring-loaded door that snaps shut faster than your neighbor’s gossip
• Smooth internal edges so you’re not accidentally running an animal torture chamber
• External trigger rod that trapped critters can’t destroy

Pro Tip: The assembly instructions might as well be written in hieroglyphics, so watch a YouTube tutorial instead.

While some users grumble about trigger sensitivity, this trap’s proven track record with possums, raccoons, and even those pesky neighborhood cats makes it worth considering. Just remember to wear the provided gloves – unless you enjoy tetanus shots.

Best For: Property owners and wildlife management professionals looking for a humane way to capture and relocate medium-sized nuisance animals like raccoons, possums, and feral cats.

Pros:

• Sturdy rust-resistant steel construction with galvanized finish ensures long-term durability
• Versatile size accommodates various animal species from squirrels to raccoons
• Safety features like smooth edges and handle guards protect both users and captured animals

Cons:

• Unclear assembly instructions can make initial setup challenging
• Some users report issues with trigger mechanism sensitivity
• At 9.3 pounds, the trap may be too heavy for some users to transport easily

Heavy Duty Live Animal Trap for Small Animals

Experienced trappers and property owners who need a reliable solution will appreciate this heavy-duty live trap’s versatility and robust construction. This rust-resistant beast means business – just ask the user who nabbed 11 raccoons and 3 possums in 8 weeks. Yeah, that’s what we call results.

You’re getting solid bang for your buck with features that matter:

• Rust-resistant wire mesh that’ll outlast your patience with these critters
• Pre-assembled design (because who’s got time for DIY drama?)
• Smooth internal edges so you’re not playing bad guy to the wildlife

Pro Tip: Stick with peanut butter as bait – it’s cheap and weirdly irresistible to possums

Sure, there’s room for improvement – the trigger mechanism can be finicky and you might wish for a bait door. But when you’re catching multiple squirrels in just three days, you won’t be complaining about the minor stuff. Just remember to check local regulations before going all wildlife wrangler on your property.

Best For: Property owners and homeowners dealing with persistent small animal problems who want a humane, reusable solution for capturing and relocating wildlife.

Pros:

• Heavy-duty construction with rust-resistant materials ensures long-term durability and reliability
• Pre-assembled design with smooth edges makes setup easy and keeps captured animals safe
• Proven effectiveness with multiple successful captures, particularly when using peanut butter as bait

Cons:

• Trigger mechanism can be inconsistent and may need adjustment
• Lacks a dedicated bait door for easier access
• Bottom grid design can allow trapped animals to soil the cage and potentially harm their feet

Kensizer Humane Rat Trap for Indoor and Outdoor Use

For those seeking a budget-friendly solution to small pest problems, the Kensizer Humane Rat Trap offers a lightweight yet effective option. Made from galvanized steel mesh, it’s perfect for catching mice, voles, and chipmunks – though don’t expect it to handle your neighbor’s annoying cat.

The trap’s 10.5 x 5.5 x 4.5-inch size makes it easy to place anywhere you’ve got unwanted visitors. Its sensitive trigger mechanism means quick catches, with users reporting success in as little as 20 minutes (now that’s fast food delivery!).

Pro Tips:

• Wrap your bait in something tempting – peanuts or honey-covered treats work great
• Wear gloves when handling – because nobody wants eau de rodent on their hands
• Check frequently to avoid leaving critters trapped too long

Just don’t expect Fort Knox-level durability. You might need to rebuild the trap after a few uses, but hey – at this price point, you can’t complain too much.

Best For: Budget-conscious homeowners and renters looking for a humane way to catch and release small rodents and pests without causing harm.

Pros:

• Quick results with sensitive trigger mechanism, often catching pests within hours
• Affordable price point with occasional two-for-one deals
• Easy to set up, clean, and transport for release of captured animals

Cons:

• Limited durability with mesh and trigger mechanism requiring potential rebuilding
• Not suitable for larger animals or heavy-duty pest control needs
• Some users report issues with trap trigger reliability and bait theft

Factors to Consider When Choosing Possum Traps

Before you rush out to buy a possum trap that’ll end up being useless, let’s cover what actually matters when choosing the right one for your situation. We’ll walk you through five key factors that’ll make or break your possum-catching success – from making sure the trap’s big enough for your target critter to understanding those pesky legal requirements about where you can release them. You won’t believe how many people skip these basics and end up with an expensive yard decoration instead of an effective trap (spoiler alert: size really does matter when it comes to trapping possums).

Size and Target Species

Selecting the right trap size is essential for successful possum control. We’re talking about critters that can weigh up to 14 pounds – not exactly your kid’s hamster here! You’ll need a trap that can handle these nocturnal troublemakers without turning into an all-you-can-escape buffet.

Here’s what you need to know about proper sizing:

• Target length: Your trap should accommodate possums between 10-32 inches long. Yeah, they come in different sizes – just like your holiday dinner guests.
• Internal dimensions: Make sure there’s enough room for the possum to waddle in comfortably. A cramped trap is about as effective as a screen door on a submarine.
• Mesh size matters: Keep those openings under 1 inch. Trust us, possums are basically furry Houdinis when it comes to larger gaps.

Pro Tip: Don’t cheap out on size – a too-small trap is just a fancy metal box that’ll collect leaves.

Remember: Proper sizing isn’t just about catching the possum – it’s about being humane. Nobody wants a stressed-out marsupial throwing a tantrum in their yard. Choose a trap that’s both effective and considerate, and you’ll have much better success with your possum problem.

Construction and Durability

While possums may look like oversized plush toys, their surprising strength demands traps built to last. Trust us – you don’t want your trap falling apart right when you’ve caught one of these surprisingly muscular marsupials.

When it comes to construction, we’re looking for the cream of the crop here:

• Galvanized steel is your best friend – it laughs in the face of rain, snow, and whatever else Mother Nature throws at it
• Small mesh openings are essential (unless you enjoy feeding the neighborhood possums free snacks)
• Reinforced doors and sturdy construction are non-negotiable – these critters aren’t exactly gentle

Pro Tip: Check for smooth internal edges. A trap that doesn’t injure the possum will last longer. Plus, it’s just the decent thing to do.

Maintenance matters too. You’ll want a trap that’s easy to clean because – surprise! – possums aren’t known for their tidiness. Look for designs that don’t require an engineering degree to take apart and reassemble.

Bottom line: Don’t cheap out on construction quality. A well-built trap might cost more upfront, but it’ll save you money (and headaches) in the long run.

Safety and Humane Design

The most critical factor in choosing a possum trap isn’t just its ability to catch – it’s how safely and humanely it does the job. Nobody wants to accidentally harm these critters (or themselves) in the process. Let’s explore what makes a trap both safe and humane.

Key Safety Features You Need:

• Smooth internal edges – Because nobody likes tetanus, especially not possums
• Spring-loaded doors that snap shut fast and secure
• Small mesh openings to prevent escape attempts (those little paws are craftier than you’d think)
• Handle guards and solid doors to keep fingers where they belong – away from angry possums

Pro Tip: Look for traps with patented safe-release mechanisms. Trust us, you don’t want to get up close and personal with a stressed possum.

The best traps also feature:

• Sensitive triggers that respond to the lightest touch
• Protective barriers between you and the captured animal
• Quick-release mechanisms that work from a safe distance

Remember: A humane trap isn’t just about being nice – it’s about being smart. The less stressed the animal, the safer you’ll be during release. And isn’t that what we all want? A win-win situation where everyone keeps their fingers.

Ease of Operation

For even seasoned wildlife handlers, operating a possum trap shouldn’t feel like solving a Rubik’s cube. Let’s be real – you’ve got better things to do than wrestle with complicated contraptions in the dark. That’s why ease of operation should be at the top of your checklist.

Here’s what makes a trap actually user-friendly (and won’t make you want to throw it across your yard):

• Single-door designs – Because who needs the hassle of multiple entry points? One door = higher catch rates. Simple math.
• Quick-set mechanisms – If you need an engineering degree to set the trap, keep shopping. Look for spring-loaded or gravity-operated doors.
• Smooth edges and safety features – Your fingers will thank you. Trust us on this one.

Pro Tip: Foldable traps are a game-changer if you’re playing hide-and-seek with possums around your property.

The trigger sensitivity is essential too. You want it responsive enough to catch that sneaky possum but not so hair-triggered that a leaf sets it off. And when it comes to baiting and releasing? The easier the access, the better your chances of success without turning it into a circus act.

Legal Release Requirements

Before selecting your ideal possum trap, understanding local wildlife regulations isn’t just smart – it’s legally required. Trust us, paying hefty fines for improper trapping isn’t anyone’s idea of a good time.

Here’s what you absolutely need to know:

• Contact your local game commission first (yes, before you buy that shiny new trap)
• Get required permits – they’re not optional, folks
• Learn about protected species in your area
• Understand release distance requirements (hint: your backyard probably isn’t far enough)

Pro Tip: Save the game warden’s number in your phone. You’ll thank us later.

The release location matters big time. Many areas require you to let the possum go within specific distance ranges. Too close? They’ll come back for an encore. Too far? You might break the law.

Remember:

• Document where you caught the possum
• Keep proof of any required permits
• Follow exact release protocols
• Take photos of release locations (yes, really)

*Here’s the real talk: If you’re not ready to follow these rules, stick to garden gnomes instead of traps. They’re way less complicated and totally legal.*

Frequently Asked Questions

What Bait Works Best to Attract Possums Into Traps?

We’ve found possums can’t resist sweet fruits like apples and bananas, as well as peanut butter. They’re also attracted to wet cat food, eggs, and chicken. Place these baits at the trap’s rear for best results.

How Often Should I Check the Trap Once It’s Set?

We recommend checking your traps every morning and evening. It’s not just humane – it’s often required by law. Don’t leave trapped animals waiting for more than 12 hours in most areas.

Is It Legal to Trap and Relocate Possums in My Area?

We recommend checking your local wildlife regulations first, as trapping and relocating possums isn’t legal everywhere. Contact your state’s wildlife agency or county extension office to learn the specific rules in your area.

Can Possums Carry Diseases That Are Dangerous to Humans?

Yes, we need to warn you that possums can carry serious diseases like leptospirosis, tuberculosis, and spotted fever. They’ll also potentially transmit parasites and toxoplasmosis through their droppings, urine, or direct contact.

What Time of Year Is Best for Trapping Possums?

While we enjoy warm summer nights, possums are most active in fall and winter. Let’s trap them from October through February when they’re searching for food and shelter during these colder months.

Last Word

We’ve covered the top possum traps that’ll keep your property critter-free without going full medieval dungeon master on these marsupial visitors. Whether you’re dealing with a single troublemaker or a whole possum party in your yard, these humane solutions get the job done. Just remember: even the fanciest trap won’t work if you don’t check it regularly – no possum wants to be ghosted in there like an unanswered text message. Choose wisely and trap responsibly!