There’s An Opossum In My Backyard! What Do I Do? [2021 Update]

Have you ever seen an opossum up close? They are awfully cute, especially opossum babies. They are a soft grey color with shiny eyes, cute little round ears, and the most adorable, slightly over-sized pink noses. But, if you ever have the misfortune of seeing an opossum up close with its mouth opened to reveal rows of very threatening-looking, needle-sharp teeth, it is doubtful you will think they are so cute anymore. And if you currently have an opossum living in your backyard, or in your home, it is definitely something you’re going to want to have checked out. Keep reading to learn all you need to know about opossums in Georgia from the wildlife control team at Active Pest Control.

Interesting Opossum Facts

Opossums are one of the most common wild animals around properties here in Georgia. They’re also one of the most unique nuisance wildlife in our area. Here’s why:

• Opossums are the only marsupials that live in North America. One distinctive characteristic of all marsupials is that they have a pouch that they carry their young in.
• Opossums prefer woodlands near water, but they can also be found near residential areas as well.
• Based on fossils, opossums were present on earth at the same time as the dinosaurs.
• Opossums have more teeth than any other land mammal, sporting a total of 50 teeth.
• Opossums can survive the bite of a poisonous snake.
• A group of opossums is called a passel.
• Opossums don’t dig holes of their own. Instead, they use the abandoned dens of other animals.

Opossum FAQ

Do opossums really hang upside down from tree branches?

No, opossums don’t really do this. But their long tails do help them in climbing.

Do opossum mothers really carry all their babies on their back?

Yes, they do. Opossum babies only remain in the womb for 14 days. They are only the size of a honeybee when they are born, then they crawl into their mother’s pouch. There can be as many as 20 babies to start with, but only a few survive. After around 67 days they leave the pouch and, whenever the mother opossum is on the move, the babies climb onto her back for a ride.

Are opossums dangerous?

Not generally. They are actually very peaceful and they don’t typically attack people or other animals. In fact, they are more likely to fall down and play dead than fight. (This is where the saying “playing possum” comes from.) Opossums are by nature very docile, however, they have been known to attack in rare instances, especially if they feel threatened and need to defend themselves or their offspring. Because of this, opossums can be dangerous.

Need Help With Opossums in Georgia?

Opossums may appear harmless, but can be dangerous and should never be approached. Active Pest Control offers wildlife removal services for a number of nuisance wildlife animals, including opossums, raccoons, squirrels, skunks, and more. If you have an opossum, or any other pest animal or insect, that you would like removed from your property, Active Pest Control is ready to help.