This page provides problem-solving advice and ways to make your yard less attractive to opossums in the first place.
For more information on these marsupials, including what they eat and where they live in the forest preserves, visit the main opossums page.
The best way to prevent an opossum from establishing a den in your yard is to keep it away from attractive areas from the start. Use welded wire to block access to crawl spaces and areas under decks, sheds, patios and porches.
If an animal has already established a den, try the techniques below, preferably two or three at the same time. After a few days, pack crumpled newspaper into the entrance. If the animal is still there, it will pull the paper out. If the paper stays in place for a few days, repair any openings.
One way to get an opossum out of a well is to place a rough board at a 45-degree angle inside the well. If you do not have a rough board, wrap a towel or carpeting around a board to provide traction. Make sure it’s long enough to reach the top. Place fish-scented cat food or cheese at the top of the ramp to entice the opossum, which may not leave until night.
If that doesn’t work, tie a rope to the handle of a 5-gallon bucket. Place food inside the bucket, and lower it into the well. Place the bucket on its side so that the opossum can walk inside. Once the opossum is inside, slowly raise the bucket and place it on the ground on its side with the opening away from you so that the opossum can walk out.
Opossums are not a public health concern. They may carry rabies, but there have not been any reports in DuPage County in recent years.
Dens
Window Wells
How to Make Your Yard Less Attractive
What You Should Never Do
Public Health Concerns
If you find a wild animal that looks injured or orphaned, leave it alone and call the Forest Preserve District's Willowbrook Wildlife Center at 630-942-6200. Recordings offer general advice when the center is closed.
Or visit the wildlife rescue advice page.
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Wheaton, IL 60189
630-933-7200
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