If an opossum is acting distressed or is sick or injured, call or text 626.344.1129.

Is An Opossum Living In Your Neighborhood?

Opossums are the only marsupial in North America. They are known for being resistant to rattlesnake venom and rabies.

Deter Opossums From Your Property

Opossums are generally considered beneficial to the environment and ecosystem, but if you would like to humanely exclude them from your property, see the tips below:

• Remove all pet food, water, and fallen fruit.
• Close all pet doors and garage doors at night.
• Use motion-sensor sprinklers or lights.
• Use rags soaked in vinegar.
• Secure all trash bins with tight-fitting or locking lids.
• Close up/secure all crawl spaces under decks, porches, sheds, and other structures.

If You Encounter An Opossum

Opossums tend to be nomadic. Therefore, they will usually stay in your yard for only a short time. They are not aggressive and will “play opossum”, a comalike state, or hiss and drool rather than attack. Please wait for them to leave your yard, or you may make the area uncomfortable by using the tips listed above, but do not corner them or harass them unnecessarily. If you encounter a baby opossum larger than 6 inches (not including the tail), please leave it alone. At this size, they begin to leave their mother. If the baby opossum is smaller than 6 inches, contact us for more information. If you encounter an injured opossum, please contact us at 626.344.1129.

For more wildlife tips, information, or wildlife training opportunities, visit pasadenahumane.org/wildlife