How Do I Keep Opossums Out Of My Garbage Cans?

Opossums love a garbage can because it provides them with an easy meal. However, they don’t just raid it once and then leave. They will come back and bring their friends. If you trash is especially pleasing, they may even move onto the property to birth their young. Opossums are more than just a nuisance. They can potentially damage the property and spread many harmful diseases. You should take steps to discourage opossums and other wildlife from making a meal out of your garbage. First Steps

The first steps involve knowing what you are up against. Opossums are typically nocturnal creatures who do most of their scavenging at night. They have opposable thumbs that can open any lid which isn’t secured tightly. These animals also sport fifty sharp teeth that can chew through most plastic.

So, the first step is to use a metal trash can with a lid that will close securely. Some of them come with locking mechanisms to keep them in place but a bungee cord works well too. It is also a good idea to put the garbage can up at night. Secure it in a garage or shed if possible.

You should also avoid over-filling the can. You should be able to secure the lid with all the trash inside the can. If one can is not enough, it may be necessary to get two of them. It is better to have two secure garbage cans than one inviting a family of opossums onto your property.

Some people like to spray ammonia on the outside of the can. This will help temporarily but the smell will dissipate. It is also likely to stink up the garage at night. Reinforcement

The best way to protect your garbage is not to attract opossums to your property in the first place. If you have fruit trees, it is best to pick up any fallen fruit. Secure any vegetables or items growing in a garden.

Most of the time, opossums come across trash as they are hunting for food. They find it by accident. Keeping pet food inside and restricting access to other items helps discourage their presence on your property.

It is also a good idea to trim back any branches at least six feet away from your roof. Restrict access underneath your porch, if you have one. Also, do not overfill bird feeders. Opossums will eat bird food too. They are not picky.

If this doesn’t do the trick, then you can put a live trap inside your garbage can. Catch the animal and relocate it to a wooded area at least five miles away.

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