Opossums are often misunderstood creatures, but they play a unique role in Florida’s ecosystem. However, when temperatures drop and food becomes scarce, opossums may venture closer to homes in search of shelter and sustenance. For homeowners, this can lead to nuisance wildlife encounters, property damage, and health concerns.
Opossum Behavior in Central Florida During Fall and Winter
1. Increased Foraging for Food
Opossums are opportunistic feeders, and as temperatures drop, they become more active in searching for food. They primarily eat:
Fruits, vegetables, and garden plants
Insects, slugs, and snails
Garbage and pet food left outdoors
In fall and winter, opossums may raid trash bins, raid gardens, or scavenge for leftovers near homes, making them a common nuisance.
2. Seeking Shelter from Cooler Weather
Unlike some animals, opossums do not hibernate, but they reduce their activity during the coldest months. Instead, they seek warm, sheltered nesting sites, such as:
Under decks, porches, and sheds
In attics, crawl spaces, and wall voids
In dense vegetation or abandoned burrows
Opossums are solitary and non-aggressive by nature, but they can become a problem if they take up residence in or near your home.
3. Delayed Breeding Season
Opossums have a short breeding season, typically from late winter to early spring. However, in fall, they may still be active in search of mates or suitable nesting sites.
4. Defensive Behaviors
If threatened, opossums may:
Hiss, growl, or show their teeth as a warning.
Play dead (a behavior called “tonic immobility”) to avoid predators.
While they rarely bite, opossums can carry diseases like leptospirosis and rabies, making it important to avoid direct contact.
Why Opossums Become a Pest Control Issue in Fall and Winter
Property Damage: Opossums may dig up lawns in search of grubs and insects or knock over trash bins.
Health Risks: Their droppings can contaminate soil and water, posing a risk of disease transmission.
Nuisance Wildlife: Their presence near homes can be unsettling, especially if they take shelter in attics or crawl spaces.
Garden Raids: Opossums may eat fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants, causing damage to landscaping.
How to Protect Your Property from Opossums This Fall and Winter
For Homeowners:
Secure Trash Bins: Use heavy-duty, locking lids to prevent opossums from scavenging for food.
Remove Food Sources: Avoid leaving pet food outside and pick up fallen fruits or vegetables from your garden.
Seal Entry Points: Inspect your home for gaps in the foundation, vents, and under decks. Use steel mesh or caulk to seal openings.
Keep Your Yard Clean: Remove leaf litter, woodpiles, and debris where opossums might nest.
Install Motion-Activated Lights: Opossums prefer dark, quiet areas. Bright lights can deter them.
Use Repellents: Natural repellents like ammonia-soaked rags or predator urine (available at garden stores) can discourage opossums.
For Commercial Properties:
Inspect Outdoor Storage Areas: Focus on dumpsters, loading docks, and storage sheds, where opossums may scavenge.
Secure Dumpsters: Use rodent-proof bins with locking lids and keep them away from buildings.
Maintain Landscaping: Trim vegetation away from structures and remove standing water to reduce insect activity (a food source for opossums).
Schedule Regular Inspections: Partner with a pest control professional to monitor and prevent opossum activity.
When to Call a Professional
If you notice:
Opossums taking shelter under your deck, porch, or in your attic
Persistent digging or scavenging in your yard or trash bins
Signs of nesting (droppings, torn insulation, or foul odors)
A licensed pest control expert at R.H. Miller can safely remove opossums and seal entry points to prevent future encounters