Opossums are commonly found in the Atlanta area.
Opossums are the only marsupial found in the U.S. and they live in the eastern and central parts of the nation. They are found all over Georgia, including around Atlanta. Males can range from 6 to 12 lbs. and females from 4 to 6 lbs. Opossums are scavengers and will eat trash, vegetables, dead animals or anything they can reach. They can cause damage to homes and yards, making it necessary to remove them at times.
Instructions
1. Check trapping regulations in Atlanta. Opossums are considered a fur-bearing species in Georgia. There is a set trapping period for fur bearers that runs from Dec. 1 to Feb. 26. Opossums in homes and yards may need to be trapped and moved to a new location. Contact the Georgia Department of Natural Resources to make sure that removing an opossum is permitted during the time you are planning. Also make sure you secure proper licenses if needed.
2. Identify where opossums are living. Opossums in Atlanta will commonly sneak into attics, crawl spaces, under decks, under porches and even in tool sheds. They are a nocturnal animal so they will make plenty of noise at night. Look for opossums in places where noises are made. Also search for signs of opossums such as feces, trash, tracks and any other sign that an animal is living in these areas.
3. Place a trap in the area where opossums are living or visiting frequently. Place the trap on flat ground so it does not wobble. A trap should be steel and at least 32-by-10-by-12 inches in size. Smaller traps will be too small for opossums to fit into. Make sure the trap is in a shady area to prevent the opossum from dying due to heat.
4. Bait the trap. Opossums are omnivores and scavengers so they will eat almost anything. Smelly meat-based baits often work the best. Once the trap is baited, check it frequently. It is not uncommon to catch a stray cat or other animal that will need to be released from the trap. The trap must be checked at least every 24 hours, according to regulations in George. Once an opossum is caught, it should be released in a safe place a few miles away from the point of capture.
5. Call a rodent removal or pest control company for help any time during the removal process. Professional companies will make sure to follow all regulations regarding opossum removal. They also can guarantee a safe release of opossums.
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