A possum in the wall usually means it entered through an exterior gap, and the fix is trapping it out and sealing the opening. Opossums rarely nest in walls, so the job is removal plus a quick check. Here is what to do.
- A possum in the wall usually wandered in.
- Trap it out with a live trap.
- Seal the exterior gap it entered through.
- Opossums rarely carry rabies.
Confirm It Is an Opossum
Opossums are nocturnal and heavy, so you hear thumping and scratching at night in the wall. They are slower and heavier than rats or mice.
Trap It Out
Set a live trap baited with cat food or fruit near the exterior gap it used, or where you hear activity. Opossums are easy to trap and rarely trap-shy.
Find and Seal the Gap
Inspect the exterior wall, foundation, and roofline for the gap the possum used. Seal it with hardware cloth or a proper cover. Sealing is what ends the problem.
Avoid Poison
A poisoned opossum can die in the wall and create an odor problem. Trapping is the cleaner fix.
Frequently Asked Questions
Trap it with a live trap baited with cat food, then seal the exterior gap it entered through.
Opossums are usually harmless and rarely carry rabies. They are slow and rarely damage wiring.
Through gaps in the exterior wall, foundation, or roofline. Sealing the gap is the fix.
Rarely. Opossums are nomadic and prefer outdoor dens, so a possum in the wall usually wandered in.
