Opossums in Georgia
Health RiskMedium
Damage RiskMedium
NuisanceMedium
How to Identify Opossums
Opossums are nocturnal marsupials known for their sturdy bodies, hairless tails, and ability to climb trees and fences while foraging for a wide variety of food sources after dark.
- Actual Size 24 to 36 inches long from nose to tail tip
- Characteristics Nocturnal, gray-furred marsupial with a pointed snout and long, hairless tail.
- Coloration Grayish-white fur with a pointed snout and pale facial markings
What Do Opossums Do?
Opossums are omnivores that eat a wide range of foods, including fruits, insects, eggs, and leftover food sources, and are frequently found in both natural and urban environments. Their nighttime activity often leads them into residential areas while searching for food.
- Nocturnal marsupials, meaning they are most active at night and carry their young in a pouch.
- They have a strong immune system and are resistant to many snake venoms and certain diseases.
- When threatened, an opossum may “play dead” as a defense mechanism, entering a temporary state of shock.
- Excellent scavengers and often help clean up dead animals and insect pests in the environment.
Where Do You Find Opossums?
Opossums commonly live in wooded areas, residential neighborhoods, and mixed natural environments where food and shelter are readily available. Common places you’ll find opossums include:
- Suburban neighborhoods with easy access to food sources
- Residential backyards with sheds, decks, or crawl spaces
- Urban alleys and streets near garbage and dumpsters
- Farmland edges and rural properties
- Parks and green spaces with trees and cover
- Areas under porches, decks, and outdoor structures
What Should I Do If I Have Opossums in Georgia?
Opossums are often found in outdoor environments like wooded yards, homes near forest edges, and heavily vegetated areas, where they may take shelter under decks or in attics and cause issues for property owners. If opossums are causing problems on your property, the following steps are recommended:
- Secure outdoor food sources such as pet food, garbage cans, and fallen fruit to reduce attractants.
- Remove clutter like woodpiles, brush, and debris that can provide hiding or nesting spots.
- Close off access to crawl spaces, sheds, and under-deck areas with sturdy barriers.
- Install secure lids on trash bins to prevent scavenging.
- Keep outdoor areas well-lit at night to discourage nighttime activity.
- Seal gaps, holes, and entry points around your home’s foundation and exterior structures.
- Contact wildlife control professionals for safe and effective opossum removal and prevention.
Top 5 FAQs About Opossums in Georgia
If you have questions about opossums and available removal options, review our FAQ section below. If you still need assistance, contact us by phone or email.
Are opossums dangerous to people?
Opossums are generally not aggressive and tend to avoid humans. However, they may bite or scratch if cornered or threatened.
Do opossums carry diseases?
Opossums can carry parasites such as fleas, ticks, and mites, but they are less likely than many animals to spread rabies.
Do opossums really “play dead”?
Yes, when threatened, opossums can enter a temporary state of shock where they appear lifeless as a defense mechanism.
How can I tell if I have an opossum on my property?
Signs include overturned trash, droppings, nighttime noises, tracks, and sightings of the animal at night.
How do I keep opossums away?
Remove food sources, secure garbage, eliminate hiding spots, and seal access under decks or sheds. Professional wildlife control may be needed for persistent issues.
