A possum in the attic is removed by trapping it, then sealing the entry point, since opossums are nomadic and rarely stay long. Opossums climb well and enter through gaps in the roofline. Here is how to get it out.
- Trap the possum, then seal the entry point.
- Opossums are nomadic and rarely stay.
- They rarely carry rabies.
- Sealing the gap is what ends the problem.
Confirm It Is an Opossum
Opossums are heavy and slow compared to squirrels, and they make thumping sounds at night. Look for larger droppings and a gap in the roofline or soffit.
Trap It
A live trap baited with cat food, fruit, or sardines, placed near the entry point, works. Opossums are easy to trap and rarely trap-shy. If you only have the sound to go on, the attic noise identifier narrows it down in three questions.
Seal the Entry Point
Once the possum is out, seal the gap in the roofline, soffit, or eave with hardware cloth. Sealing is what ends the problem, since opossums are nomadic and move on once excluded.
Why It Rarely Stays Long
Opossums are nomadic and use a den site for a few days before moving on. The fix is often as simple as removing the attractant and sealing the gap, since the possum would leave anyway.
Frequently Asked Questions
Trap it with a live trap baited with cat food, then seal the entry point in the roofline or soffit.
They are usually harmless and rarely carry rabies, but their droppings can be a nuisance. Trap and seal the gap.
Through gaps in the roofline, soffits, and eaves. Opossums climb well, so any gap is an entry point.
Opossums are nomadic and rarely stay long. Removing the attractant and sealing the gap ends the problem.
