Yes, possums can be considered winter pests. While they are generally harmless creatures, their search for warmth and shelter during colder months often leads them into urban households. Due to many dynamic changes in the environment over the years, possums have chosen to reside in buildings, homes, sheds, and garages. They play a beneficial role in the ecosystem by controlling insect populations.
However, they are welcome in Aussie households. And that too during the winter season, they tend to seek shelter inside your home in search of food and water. This is the reason you could notice an increase in possum activity. If you are bothered by possums, consider a possum removal service to keep them under control.
Possum Behavior in Winter: A Threat?
Possums are generally not a threat to humans. They are solitary, nocturnal creatures that prefer to avoid conflict. However, their behaviour can change slightly during winter.
Possum Behaviour in Winter
Increased Daytime Activity – While possums are primarily nocturnal, they may be seen more frequently during daylight hours in winter. This is often due to the scarcity of food and the need to conserve energy. When you notice this sudden surge, make sure to get help from a possum removal professional.
Shelter Seeking – As the weather gets colder, possums will search for sheltered areas to hibernate or sleep for extended periods. This can include attics, garages, and sheds.
Defensive Behaviour: If cornered or threatened, they may “play dead” as a defense mechanism. This can be alarming but harmless. They bite rarely. If you are troubled by possum presence, contact the possum control team near you.
Are Possums a Threat in Winter?
While it’s uncommon, there is a slight increase in the potential for human-possum interactions during winter due to their increased daytime activity and search for shelter. However, the risk of aggression is minimal.
To minimise interactions with opossums, it is essential to
- Seal potential entry points into your home to prevent them from gaining access.
- Also, avoid leaving food sources like pet food or garbage accessible outdoors, as this can attract opossums to your property.
- If you encounter an opossum, creating distance and providing a clear escape route is crucial to avoid confrontation and potential harm to the animal.
Whether you suspect possum activity at your home or have severe infestation, contact the team at Possum Removal Melbourne at 03 9021 3762 today.