Ways an Opossum Can Get Into a Home

Attic Hideouts

• A flooded attic from chewed water lines is a clear indication that an opossum has invaded your home. Opossums may chew off wires, tearing insulation off pipes. Another problem with opossums residing in pipes is that they urinate and defecate, leaving an additional horrific odor which will spread throughout the room. Opossums can get to the attic from crevices in the chimney.

Chimney Climbers

• With sharp claws and gripping tails, these animals are climbers. During the winter, male opossums climb into chimneys to hide from the cold, while female opossums pick chimneys that serve as good places to keep their young. They also like to remain during the spring season. After a day's rest, they will come down at night to find food in the kitchen in various forms. Pet bowls can provide water, and dirty garbage bins provide food. They are not picky eaters as they eat food, fruits, nuts and other animals, such as rats, birds and snakes.

Yard Raiders

• While opossums set up housekeeping anywhere that they are comfortable, such as RVs, patios and playhouses, they also roam freely during the night and are heavily attracted to gardens. They dig up dirt to hunt worms and insects. Raiding yards may lead them to garages. Even if the garage door is closed, a wide enough crevice can invite an opossum to stay and procreate.

Pet Door Gateway

• You should use pet doors at your own risk. This side door provides opossums with a very easy way to sneak inside of a house. However, there are newer models which only allow a pet with a specific magnetic collar to come through. These models provide better protection against the invasion of opossums.