Opossum removal: the low-confrontation problem with a high-mess potential
Opossums are North America's only native marsupial, and they are remarkably non-confrontational - their famous "playing dead" reflex is involuntary. The problem is where they den: under decks and porches, in crawl spaces, and occasionally in attics. A nesting opossum leaves droppings, urine, and nesting debris that can contaminate insulation and attract other pests.
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Call (844) 578-3091Call hours: Mon–Sun, 8 AM–6 PM. Coverage varies by location.
Disclaimer: EmergencyAnimalRemoval.com is a free service to assist homeowners in connecting with local service providers. All contractors/providers are independent and EmergencyAnimalRemoval.com does not warrant or guarantee any work performed. It is the responsibility of the homeowner to verify that the hired contractor furnishes the necessary license and insurance required for the work being performed. All persons depicted in a photo or video are actors or models and not contractors listed on EmergencyAnimalRemoval.com.
Signs of the problem
- Scratching or shuffling sounds under a deck, porch, or in a crawl space at night
- A musky odor in enclosed areas under structures
- Tipped trash cans or raided pet-food dishes, especially overnight
- A slow-moving or "frozen" animal in the yard - this is the defensive reflex, not illness
- Droppings larger than a cat's near the foundation or under a deck
What the process typically involves
Providers vary; this describes the industry-standard approach, not a guarantee of any specific provider\u2019s method.
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1.Confirm the den
Technicians locate the active entry and den site - most commonly a gap in deck skirting, a crawl-space vent, or an open soffit.
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2.Removal or eviction
One-way doors or live trapping, depending on the situation and state rules. Opossums are not rabies-vector species in most states, so handling rules are generally more straightforward than for raccoons or skunks.
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3.Check for young
Opossums carry young in their pouch for roughly two months, then piggyback them. Jobs in spring and early summer require a litter check before any opening is sealed.
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4.Exclusion
Hardware cloth or solid skirting around the structure base, blocking all gap entry points to prevent re-use.
Seasonal timing
Opossums are active year-round in warmer climates and den under structures most actively in winter. Litters are born in late winter and again in midsummer.
Legal notes
Opossums are not a rabies-vector species in the traditional regulatory sense, but handling rules still vary by state. Licensed operators follow the applicable nuisance wildlife permit rules for paid removal work. See wildlife removal laws by state.
What it typically costs
Opossum removal typically runs $150-$400 for trapping. Crawl-space or deck exclusion to prevent return is an additional cost based on perimeter length.
What moves the price:
- • Whether young are present
- • Access difficulty under the structure
- • Perimeter length requiring exclusion mesh
- • Cleanup of droppings or nesting material in the crawl space
Ranges reflect typical figures from national cost guides — not quotes. Actual pricing comes from the provider after an inspection. Full breakdown in the cost guide.
Frequently asked questions
Is the opossum I see sick or injured?
Probably not. The "playing possum" response is an involuntary paralysis triggered by extreme stress - the animal looks dead but recovers on its own. A healthy opossum that is simply frozen in place does not need intervention; leave it alone and it will move on.
Do opossums carry disease?
They are not a significant rabies risk - their low body temperature makes them an inefficient host. However, they can carry leptospirosis, salmonella, and parasites in their droppings, which is why cleanup after a crawl-space infestation matters.
Will an opossum come back after removal?
A new animal can move in if the entry point stays open. Opossums do not typically travel far or maintain territories, so exclusion repairs are the key to preventing repeat use.
Available in these states
Talk to someone about your wildlife problem
Call (844) 578-3091Call hours: Mon–Sun, 8 AM–6 PM. Coverage varies by location.
Disclaimer: EmergencyAnimalRemoval.com is a free service to assist homeowners in connecting with local service providers. All contractors/providers are independent and EmergencyAnimalRemoval.com does not warrant or guarantee any work performed. It is the responsibility of the homeowner to verify that the hired contractor furnishes the necessary license and insurance required for the work being performed. All persons depicted in a photo or video are actors or models and not contractors listed on EmergencyAnimalRemoval.com.
Last reviewed: 2026-07-16