What Do Possums Eat?

First, let’s set the record straight: Possums are a species of tree dwelling marsupials native to Australia and the Indonesian islands of New Guinea and Sulawesi. When we talk about possums in North America, we actually mean Opossums. Opossums are the only native marsupials in North America. And, if we are discussing opossums in Canada, we are specifically talking about the Virginia Opossum. Generally the size of a domestic cat, opossums are often misunderstood and vilified, when in fact, they are incredible pest control mechanisms all on their own.

Understanding Opossum Diets

Opossums are omnivorous creatures and opportunistic scavengers and will feed on all sorts of things. Let’s have a closer look at “what do possums like to eat”, shall we?

Natural Diet of Opossums

Opossums are true omnivores; their ability to consume and digest both plant-based and animal-based foods is essential for their survival. Their choice of food likely depends mostly on availability. Additionally, they are known to scavenge carrion and roadkill, making them part of Mother Nature’s clean-up crew.

Insects and Bugs

Opossums play an important role in controlling pest populations with an affinity for beetles and bugs, commonly found in yards, gardens, and wooded areas. Such bugs may include ants, termites, grasshoppers, and crickets. Snails and slugs, high in protein, vitamins, and minerals, are also on the menu for any self respecting opossum. Interestingly, a myth claiming that opossums eat thousands of ticks in a season, may just be that - a myth. A 2021 peer reviewed study found that opossums do not seem to favour ticks at all. 

Fruits and Berries

Their sweet taste and excellent nutritional value make fruits and berries, including apples, grapes, cherries, and blackberries a beloved and important part of the opossum’s diet. Leafy greens and juicy corn kernels are also a welcome addition to the menu.

Opportunistic Eating Habits

Opossums are known to be opportunistic eaters; this is why their diet includes a wide variety of food sources. Though primarily omnivorous, they do consume meat when presented with an opportunity. So, what do possums like to eat? And what about babies? What do baby possums eat? Actually the diet of babies and young opossums is the same as that of an adult, with the addition of marsupial milk for the first three months.

Small Mammals and Birds

While opossums don’t actively hunt birds or other animals, they will prey on ‘low hanging fruit’, such as the very young or injured. They have an excellent sense of both smell and hearing, often waiting in the shadows for the right time to strike. Mice, rats, and shrews may fall victim to the opossum’s sharp teeth and claws. An unattended nest of young birds, or birds having fallen from the nest, may also turn into a tasty midday snack.

Carrion and Roadkill

With their heightened sense of smell, these busy scavengers can easily sniff out carrion or roadkill. Opossums play an important role in the cleaning up of carrion and preventing the spread of disease.

Garbage and Human Waste

In suburban or even urban environments, opossums may view your garbage bins as an all day buffet. Because of their opportunistic eating habits, scraps of leftover human food will do perfectly fine. 

Pet Foods

Of course, feeding your pets outside will invite all sorts of wildlife to your home. Opossums will happily line up after raccoons and skunks and partake in a meal of dog or cat food.. 

How to Prevent Opossums from Coming Into Your Yard

If you’ve spotted an opossum around your home (and you’d rather not), limiting the availability of foods that opossums like to eat along with access to your yard, will go a long way.

Secure Garbage Bins

Purchase lockable trash bins or store them inside, if possible. The mere smell of your garbage will keep possums coming back.

Remove Pet Food 

Definitely remove pet food and water bowls. While rabies is not really a concern with opossums, your pet’s food should be his or her own. Let’s not make it too easy!

Clean Up Fallen Fruits

If you are lucky enough to have fruit trees, remember that opossums love fruit, too. Let’s clean up any fallen fruit and store them out of reach. Now, opossums are good climbers, so they might still enjoy your fruit trees.

Limiting Shelter Opportunities

Opossums are nomadic in nature - taking them to where there’s food available. They do not build nests or dens, as other animals do. They may seek shelter or cover for the day in brush piles, dense underbrush, or under buildings or decks. Close off any availability to set up home under your deck.

Seal Off Access to Sheds and Garages

Have a walk around your outbuildings and ensure there are no access points an animal could exploit. Close off holes or crevices and don’t forget to check the roof!

Trim Trees and Shrubs

Opossums are quite skilled climbers. Trim back trees and shrubs from your roof line, fences, and other structures.

Motion-Activated Sprinklers

As a short term deterrent, a motion activated sprinkler system may keep opossums at bay while you make more permanent improvements.

Bright Lights and Loud Noises

Opossums are timid and shy creatures. Bright lights and loud noises are not the type of environment an opossum will seek out.

Natural Repellents

Remember that awesome sense of smell? Make it work for you! Opossums dislike smells like garlic, onion, hot peppers, and ammonia - all things you likely have in the kitchen. If you’d like to get a bit more adventurous, consider purchasing wolf’s urine.

Still have trouble with Opossums?

If you’ve tried the home remedies and you are still plagued by opossums, it might be time to call in the professionals. Hawkeye’s team of licensed trappers is standing by to relieve you of your uninvited guests.