Possums, also known as opossums, are small to medium-sized marsupials native to North America. They are often confused with the Australian marsupial called “opossum,” but they are not the same animal. Possums are nocturnal creatures that have adapted well to urban environments. Their strong claws and prehensile tails help them navigate various surfaces with ease. Can possums climb? Yes, possums are excellent climbers and can effortlessly scale trees, fences, and even walls.
Let’s take a look.
What Makes Possums Good Climbers?
Possums have a lifespan of about 2-4 years and are known for their climbing abilities. Their bodies are perfectly designed for climbing. They have sharp claws that allow them to grip onto different surfaces while their elongated prehensile tails provide balance and support.
Also, their muscular hind legs enable them to leap and climb efficiently. Possums can climb up to 50 feet or more, depending on the tree or structure they are scaling. They are known to reach impressive heights when seeking shelter or food.
Why Do Possums Climb Trees and Structures?
Possums have opposable “thumbs” on their rear feet, which helps them grasp objects and branches securely while climbing. This unique trait adds to their climbing prowess. They climb trees and structures for various reasons. They use trees as a safe place to sleep during the day, away from predators. Also, they climb structures like fences and walls to search for food, such as insects, fruits, and small animals.
How Do I Keep Possums Out of My Yard?
To keep possums out of your yard, there are several measures you can take:
1. Secure trash cans with tight-fitting lids to prevent easy access to food sources.
2. Remove any fallen fruits or vegetables from your yard, as possums are attracted to these food sources.
3. Seal off any potential entry points, such as gaps in fences or under decks, that possums could use to enter your property.
4. Install motion-activated lights or sprinklers to deter possums from entering your yard.
Other Recommended Maintenance
Now that you know that possums can climb, let’s take a look at other areas of recommended maintenance. One of those is are possums dangerous to dogs? They usually are not dangerous as they are docile and will usually run away. However, they may hiss or bite if attacked.
Next, are skunks out during the daytime? Yes, skunks search for food during the day so they are able to avoid nocturnal predators. However, many are out at night too depending on their sleep cycle.
Lastly, during the summer months, many people spend time outdoors. Does citronella repel flies? There are various citronella products that you can try to see what works best.
When Do I Contact a Professional?
If you have tried various methods to keep possums out of your yard but continue to have problems, it may be time to contact a professional wildlife removal service. They have the expertise and experience to safely and effectively handle possums or other wildlife issues.
Conclusion
Possums are skilled climbers, thanks to their sharp claws, prehensile tails, and unique opposable “thumbs.” While they can be fascinating creatures to observe, some people prefer to keep them out of their yards. By following preventive measures and seeking professional help if needed, you can ensure a possum-free environment around your home. If you have a problem with possums, reach out to All South Pest Control to determine your pest service needs in McDonough, GA, and the surrounding areas.
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