5 of the Most Common Signs a Home Has a Possum Infestation
Pest control is a massive problem in any home, especially if you have small children or pets. Pests can carry diseases and contaminate food, which can be very difficult to eliminate once they've infested your home. Many pests, such as ants, cockroaches, and termites, can infest a home. However, the problem becomes more complicated if rodents are present, such as possums.
Possums are one of the most common pests in Australia, and they can be challenging to eliminate. Because possums are nocturnal animals, they're often not seen until it's too late, and they've already caused damage to your home. They can gnaw through electrical wires, tear insulation, and even contaminate food. For this reason, a homeowner must know some telltale signs of possum presence. These include:
#1 - Structural Damage
One of the most common signs of possum damage is structural damage to your home. Possums are known to gnaw on wood, so if you notice any new holes or chewing marks on any of the wooden parts of your home, a possum is likely responsible. Possums can also tear through insulation and drywall, so if you notice any rips or holes in these materials, it's also likely that a possum is responsible.
#2 - Droppings
Another common sign of possum infestation is droppings. Possums will often leave their droppings in the same area where they eat, so if you notice any small, dark-coloured droppings around your home, a possum is likely responsible. Possum droppings can often be found in cupboards, on countertops, or even on the floor.
When this happens, a foul odour is often present as well. Possums are also known to urinate inside homes, which may be another sign of presence.
#3 - Dwindling Pet Food
Possums will target their food if you have pets, whether a dog or cat. Since possums are nocturnal, they will often raid pet food bowls when your pets are asleep. If you start to notice a decrease in the amount of food your pet is eating, it's likely because a possum is eating it instead.
It's also worth noting that possums are drawn to cat food because it's often made with tuna, which possums love. If your cat eats this food, keep it in a sealed container to prevent possums from accessing it.
#4 - Loud Scratching Noises
Possums are notorious for scratching their claws on whatever they can. This is especially true if the possum is trying to climb something.
A possum is likely trying to get in if you hear loud scratching noises in your attic or crawlspace. These animals are also known to scratch on doors and windows to get inside a home.
#5 - Odd Animal Vocalisations
If you don't hear scratching sounds, possums also make vocalisations that sound like they are fighting or hissing at each other. These noises can be pretty loud and may be heard at night. Sometimes, the noises can also sound like growling.
Handling a Possum Infestation
A possum infestation is never easy to handle because they are protected animals in Australia, meaning it's illegal to harm or kill them. Possums are also very good at hiding and are often hard to find, complicating matters further. However, this doesn't mean you can't catch and relocate them. You can try sealing up all the possible entry points so they can't get back in or use possum-proof fencing to keep them out. Alternatively, you can also use a live trap to catch them.
You can always hire a professional pest control company if all else fails. The service providers will be able to inspect your property and determine the best course of action. They will also be able to provide you with more information on how to keep possums away.
Conclusion
A possum infestation is problematic for any home because of the potential damage it can cause. Because of this, a homeowner should take action as soon as possible if they think they have a possum infestation. When you do, your home will be safer, and you can rest assured that your family is not at risk for any diseases that possums may carry.
D-Day Pest Control provides top-quality services for possum removal in Geelong. Our pest control professionals use safe methods to ensure your home remains safe and secure. Simply go to our website to request a quote!
