Possums in Florida: Risks & Removal Guide
Are possums on your Florida property? Learn what attracts them, the risks they pose, and how to remove them safely.
Possums in Florida: What Homeowners Need to Know
Seeing a possum wandering across your yard at night may not seem like a big deal at first. But when possums begin living under decks, inside sheds, or near your home’s foundation, they can quickly become a nuisance.
In Florida, possums are common Nuisance Wildlife. While they are generally non-aggressive, they can create property damage, sanitation issues, and unwanted odors if they decide to stay. Understanding what attracts possums and how to address the issue early can prevent bigger wildlife problems.
What Is Attracting Possums to Your Florida Home?
Possums are opportunistic scavengers. If your property offers food, water, and shelter, they may decide to settle in. Florida’s warm climate makes it easy for possums to find consistent food sources year-round.
Food Sources
- Unsecured trash cans
- Pet food left outdoors
- Fallen fruit from trees
- Outdoor feeding stations
Shelter & Access
- Accessible crawl spaces
- Open sheds or garages
- Gaps under decks or porches
Why It Matters
If shelter is available, they may use your property as a nesting site. Eliminating attractants is the first step in reducing possum activity.
The Risks of Having Possums on Your Property
While possums are often viewed as harmless, allowing them to remain on your property increases the chance of structural damage and contamination. Potential risks include:
- Tearing insulation or vapor barriers in crawl spaces
- Damaging ductwork or stored items
- Leaving droppings and strong odors
- Fleas, parasites, and potential disease exposure (e.g., leptospirosis)
Note: If a possum feels cornered, it may hiss or show defensive behavior. Although attacks are rare, direct contact should always be avoided.
How to Identify a Possum Problem
Possums are nocturnal, so you may not see them during the day. Instead, look for these signs if you suspect they are denning nearby:
Physical Signs
- Tipped-over trash cans
- Scattered debris around garbage areas
- Droppings near foundation walls
- Tracks or tail drag marks in dirt
Sensory Signs
- Noises under decks or crawl spaces at night
- Strong, musky odors
Professional Possum Removal in Florida
Wildlife removal is not just about relocating an animal. It involves identifying entry points, removing attractants, and preventing re-entry.
Attempting to trap or remove a possum without proper knowledge can violate wildlife regulations, result in injury, or cause the animal to relocate deeper into your property.
Professional wildlife control ensures safe, humane removal and proper exclusion techniques to protect your home long-term.
Contact Insect IQ for Wildlife Removal in Florida
If you suspect possums are living on your property, do not ignore the signs. Do not let a minor wildlife issue turn into costly damage.
At Insect IQ , we provide professional wildlife inspections, humane removal services, and full exclusion solutions to prevent future intrusions.
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