Opossums are one of Michigan’s most misunderstood wild animals. Often spotted roaming backyards or digging through trash cans at night, these nocturnal creatures can be a source of curiosity, concern—or both. At Critter Control of Grand Rapids, we believe that understanding wildlife is the first step toward safely and humanely managing it. In this article, we’ll break down everything homeowners need to know about opossums: what they do, where they live, the risks they pose, and how to deal with them if they become a nuisance.
What Are Opossums?
Opossums are North America's only native marsupial, meaning they carry and nurse their young in a pouch. The most common species in Michigan is the Virginia opossum. These animals are roughly the size of a housecat and have grayish fur, white faces, long hairless tails, and opposable thumbs on their hind feet, which help them climb.
Though they may look a bit ragged and alarming, opossums are generally non-agressive and prefer to avoid confrontation.
What Do Opossums Eat?
Opossums are omnivores and nature’s clean-up crew. Their diet includes:
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Insects and grubs
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Small rodents
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Fruits and vegetables
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Carrion (dead animals)
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Pet food and garbage
Because of their varied diet, they’re often attracted to homes with easy access to food—like unsecured trash bins, compost piles, or leftover pet food.
Are Opossums Dangerous?
Opossums pose very little danger to humans or pets. They are not aggressive and will typically flee or “play dead” when threatened. However, there are a few concerns homeowners should be aware of:
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Disease Transmission: Opossums can carry diseases such as leptospirosis, tularemia, and salmonella, and they may host fleas, ticks, or mites that can affect household pets.
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Property Damage: While they don't generally dig or chew like raccoons or squirrels, they may nest under decks, porches, sheds, or in attics—especially if an entry point is available.
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Pet Encounters: Although they typically avoid conflict, opossums may hiss or bare their teeth if cornered by a curious dog or cat.
Signs of an Opossum on Your Property
Not sure if an opossum has moved in? Look for:
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Scratching or rustling noises at night (especially under your home or in the attic)
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Tipped-over trash cans
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Feces or nesting materials in sheltered areas
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Tracks or paw prints (five fingers on both front and back feet)
How to Prevent Opossums Around Your Home
Prevention is key to avoiding unwanted visits from these nighttime foragers. Here are a few tips:
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Secure trash bins with tight-fitting lids.
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Bring pet food indoors overnight.
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Close off crawl spaces under your deck or porch with skirting or mesh.
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Seal entry points to attics, garages, or sheds.
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Keep your yard clean, especially of fallen fruit, bird seed, or other food sources.
What to Do If You Have an Opossum Problem
If you believe an opossum is living on your property or inside your home, it’s important to address the issue humanely and professionally. DIY removal attempts can be dangerous for both you and the animal—and in many areas, it’s illegal to trap or relocate wildlife without proper permits.
That’s where Critter Control of Grand Rapids comes in. Our trained wildlife specialists will:
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Inspect your property to identify access points and nesting areas
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Safely and humanely remove the opossum
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Seal off entry points to prevent future intrusions
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Offer cleanup and sanitization services if needed
The Bottom Line
Opossums may not be the most welcome backyard visitor, but they play a valuable role in the ecosystem by controlling pests and cleaning up waste. That said, when they start nesting too close to home, it’s time to take action.
If you suspect an opossum problem—or just want to make sure your home is secure—contact Critter Control of Grand Rapids today. We're here to help you protect your home, family, and peace of mind with safe, effective, and humane wildlife control solutions.