How to Keep Opossums Out of the Garden

Opossum Description

• Opossums, also known as possums, are the only marsupial, or mammal with a pouch, in North America. With over 60 species worldwide, perhaps the most easily-recognized opossum is the Virginia, or common possum, which features dark gray-black fur on the body with white fur on a pointed face. They are about 2.5 feet in length and can weigh 8 to 13 pounds. One of the world's scavenger animals, opossums are often attracted to areas populated by humans to gain access to open garbage cans and dumpsters. Opossums also feed on carrion, fruit, grass, nuts, birds, insects, mice, snakes, worms and chickens. They spend a lot of time in trees, with sharp claws that make climbing easy, and are perhaps most famous for their ability to "play dead" to escape predators.

Traps

• Traps for possum control should be about 10 by 12 by 32 inches, and either box or cage-type traps can be used. Over-ripe melons, bananas and grapes all work as bait, and traps should be set on known possum routes, trails and other areas possums appear to frequent. Killing the animal should always be avoided, and most states have laws about the killing of wildlife that need to be taken into consideration. Rather, a licensed wildlife expert should be called to help in the safe removal and relocation of the animal.

Chili Pepper Plants and Sprays

• Homemade applications for keeping opossums out of the garden include pureeing 1 cup of dried chili pepper in 0.3 gallons of warm water in a blender, straining and applying the spray mixture on plants. Chili peppers are repulsive to opossums. You can also sprinkle chili powder on and around plants, and plant chili pepper plants around your garden as a protective border. To avoid severe irritation, take care not to rub your eyes while handling any kind of chili.

Fencing & Alternative Food Sources

• Using fencing to keep possums out of your garden is another, more expensive, option. Erect wire or electric fencing that is at least 4 feet high to prevent the animals from climbing over.
  Providing an alternative food source can help keep opossums away from garden vegetables and plants, such as planting eucalyptus in your garden or in another area of your yard. Nectar-filled flowers are another option, such as grevilleas, which can also be planted either in your garden or with other plants opossums like to consume. Fruit scraps may also be scattered around your garden or alternative food source plot to deter opossums from your garden.