Possum Traps

About Possum Trapping

Possums don’t usually cause much damage, but they can be very annoying since they scavenge for food, much like raccoons. Having several in your area can also contribute to the spread of fleas to your outdoor pets. Opossums are often considered furbearers, and nuisance possums can be taken at any time. They can also be hunted during the appropriate season with the proper license. However, make sure you know the laws in your area. You may have to have a trapping license or alert your department of natural resources if you have trapped a possum.

How To Trap A Possum

Possums are not wary of traps, and can be easily captured with simple techniques. Keep in mind that once a possum is trapped, you must decide to shoot it or release it. Releasing it may be difficult because of laws and ordinances in your area, so be prepared before you begin your trapping efforts.

• Traps should be at least 10x10x32 or 10x10x42 if it is a two-door trap.
• Set traps where you’ve seen opossums frequent, out of the way of the public and shaded from direct sunlight. Make sure the trap is on level ground.
• Cover the top and sides of at least half the trap with a towel or cloth, which will protect the trapped animal from the elements and also help to reduce stress on the animal.
• Using dirt, leaves, and grass to cover the bottom of the trap can make it more discrete and less suspicious to the opossum.
• Sardines, wet or dry cat food, fish oil, and table scraps work well as bait, but also attract cats and dogs. Sweet baits, like molasses, honey, marshmallows, apples, pears, and bananas also work great for attracting possums and these baits are far less likely to attract pets.
• Make sure not to place a trap within a foot of any structure or anything on your property. Trapped possums (and most trapped animals) will reach through the trap and destroy anything they can reach, including siding, wires, grass, etc.
• To add even more success to your trapping, use multiple traps and vary the bait you use in each trap.
• Don’t forget to use other methods of possum control, especially sealing up your home to ensure possums can’t access your home, and reduce other areas that could offer shelter. Make sure there is no other food available to the possums, like pet food and water, bird seed (bird feeders should not be hanging from trees), and that garbage cans are well sealed.

Picture of an Opossum Caught in a Trap