It’s not unusual to see squirrels running on fences, climbing trees, and flying from branch to branch, but what about possums? Can possums climb fences or not? How about opossums?
Notice the possum’s front claws and thumbs? They are sharp enough to dig into the wood, making them proficient climbers. This means that, unfortunately, yes, possums can climb fences as well as chains, and rooftops. They’re such good climbers, they can climb a 13ft vertical wall! So if you think putting up a fence will keep them out – think again. So, yes, possums and opossums can climb.
Opossums and Possums?
Many believe that possums and opossums are the same, and while they do have many similarities, they are different animals. Both are marsupials, meaning they carry their young in a pouch. Other marsupials include the kangaroo, koala, wombat, and even the Tasmanian Devil.
Possum
A possum has a round body and thick golden brown fur, and a bushy tail. Its size varies anywhere from as small as an ounce to 20 lbs. They reside in Australia, New Zealand, and China and make their home in forests or wooded areas. However this hasn’t stopped possums from climbing the occasional fence and getting into mischief in people’s yards.
Possums are naturally curious and unafraid of people. If you happen to be in Australia and see a possum, don’t be surprised if they wander up to you.
Opossum
An opossum doesn’t have the cuteness and charm of a possum. Its facial features are more severe, with a white face, coarse hair, and a slick tail. They grow to approximately 2.5 feet and can be found in North America, Mexico, Central America, and Canada.
If you’ve ever heard someone say, “playing possum,” they’re referring to how the opossum reacts when they are afraid – They play dead. If you’ve never seen this in action – it’s crazy. They will not move and are very convincing. As soon as they believe the threat has passed, they run away. If they are cornered, they will show their teeth and hiss, giving you fair warning that they can and will bite if necessary. You don’t want this kind of possum to climb your fence and get into your yard!
Even though they don’t like people, they love to nest in attics, under decks, garages, or anywhere they can find a dry safe place.
Why you don’t want a possum or an opossum to climb your fence and get into your backyard
Wildlife coming into our yards is something most of us try to encourage. Whether bird feeders or placing nuts for squirrels, wildlife adds to our overall backyard experience. With possums and opossums, you may feel differently.
They will locate any dry safe place and make it their own to nest in. While they don’t mean to do any harm, if they find their way into your attic or garage, you need to get them out, or your will be dealing with cleaning up their waste, nests, and overall smell.
In addition to their nesting, they are known to carry fleas into your yard. Once you have a flea infestation, it’s difficult and expensive to get rid of it. They are carriers of a buffet of diseases such as rabies, which is rare in these warm-blooded mammals but possible. Tuberculosis and spotted fever, to name a few, are also possible with opossums and possums.
Prevent Possums and Opossums from visiting
The best way to ensure to keep possums out of your yard is the same with any unwanted wildlife such as skunks, rats, and even squirrels.
- Keep it clean
- Seal them off
- Get rid of food
- Use scents
- Seal under decks and basements
Keep it clean!
Keep your yard clean. This means keeping your yard free of debris and trash. You want to make it difficult for them to find an outside place to nest. Possums and Opossums love leftovers, especially when they’ve been sitting out in the sun rotting, and won’t hesitate to climb your fence to get what they want. As such, we’d recommend getting a trash can and getting to work cleaning the yard.
Seal them off
Make sure your home is sealed and there are no gaps in the roofline or rafters. You may even want to close up that pet door. Believing your pets can go in and but possums can’t is unrealistic. If you’re in an area where wildlife is prevalent, you may want to call a professional to make sure any area in question is properly sealed. If an area is obvious, you can use chicken wire to lock them out.
Don’t forget the garage. This includes keeping it free from food. Your trash cans should be sealed, and your garage should be closed when you’re not in it.
Food
Human food is not the only food possums love, they will eat your dog or cat food if you put it out. They will also find their way to bird feeders and any other food. If you don’t want possums, keep the food indoors.
Scents
Some scents like garlic and ammonia are natural possum repellants. Just mix the garlic or ammonia in a spray bottle and spray around where you’ve seen them. That’ll keep any opossum or possum from climbing your fence and getting into your yard!
Decks and Basements
If you have an outside deck, possums love to live underneath. You should always make sure the area is secure so no animals can find their way in. An easy way is to use chicken wire around the perimeter, but make sure to make sure you’re not locking anyone in.
Conclusion
Possums and Opossums are two different marsupials and even live on different continents. While the possum is friendly and furry, the opossum is frightened of people and is known for “playing possum.” While their differences are vast, one thing they have in common is that both are expert climbers. Not only can a possum and an opossum climb wood and wire fences, but they can also vertical walls. They will find any dry safe place to make their nests and love attics, basements, and garages. Fences won’t keep them out, but there are many precautions you can take that can.