Opossum vs. Possum—What’s the Difference?

When people hear the word “possum,” they often confuse it with the similar-sounding “opossum.” While these two creatures share some characteristics, they are actually quite different in terms of species, habitat, and behavior. In Australia, possums are common marsupials, and in North America, opossums are often spotted in suburban and rural areas. If you’re in Melbourne and dealing with a possum problem, knowing the distinction is essential, especially if you’re seeking the help of professional possum catchers in Melbourne like Specific Pest Control.

In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the key differences between possums and opossums, their behaviors, and why proper removal and control are important—particularly in Melbourne, where possum-related issues are more prevalent.

What Are Possums?

Possums are marsupials native to Australia, New Guinea, and nearby islands. There are over 70 different species of possums, and they play a vital role in the Australian ecosystem. In Melbourne, common species include the Common Brushtail Possum and the Ringtail Possum. They are nocturnal creatures, meaning they are most active at night, and they often seek shelter in roofs, attics, or garages in urban environments.

Possums have adapted to living in suburban areas, and while they may look cute, they can cause significant problems when they enter homes. Possums are herbivores, feeding primarily on leaves, flowers, and fruits, but they are also opportunistic eaters and may scavenge food from garbage bins.

What Are Opossums?

Opossums, on the other hand, are found primarily in North and South America. The most well-known species is the Virginia Opossum, the only marsupial native to North America. Opossums are famous for their defensive behavior, where they “play dead” (a term called “playing possum”) to avoid predators. This is a key survival mechanism that is unique to them.

Opossums are omnivorous and will eat anything from fruits to small animals and even carrion. Unlike their Australian counterparts, opossums have a distinct appearance, with a pale face, a prehensile tail, and a rat-like body.

Key Differences Between Possums and Opossums

Though they share a similar name, possums and opossums differ significantly in terms of physical appearance, habitat, and behavior:

1. Geographical Location:
   • Possums are found in Australia and nearby regions.
   • Opossums are native to the Americas.
2. Physical Appearance:
   • Possums generally have rounder faces, fluffy bodies, and bushy tails.
   • Opossums have more pointed faces, a bare tail, and a generally scruffier appearance.
3. Diet:
   • Possums are herbivores, primarily feeding on plant matter.
   • Opossums are omnivores, eating both plants and small animals.
4. Behavior:
   • Possums are generally more docile but can be aggressive if threatened, especially when protecting their young.
   • Opossums are known for “playing dead” when they feel threatened, a unique defense mechanism.
5. Lifespan:
   • Possums have a lifespan of up to 13 years in their natural habitat.
   • Opossums have shorter lifespans, typically around 2 to 4 years.

Possum Behavior in Melbourne

In Melbourne, possums are often spotted in residential areas due to the abundance of food sources and shelter options in urban environments. These animals are excellent climbers and will use trees, fences, and roofs to travel. Once they gain access to your home or business, they can be destructive, gnawing on wires, insulation, and wood.

Possums are protected wildlife in Australia, meaning it’s illegal to harm them. For this reason, professional possum removal services, like those provided by Specific Pest Control, are crucial for safely handling these animals.

Why Is Opossum &. Possum Control Important?

Possums may seem harmless, but they can cause a range of issues when they settle inside your property. Here’s why possum control is necessary:

1. Damage to Property: Possums can cause serious damage to roofs, ceilings, and insulation as they search for entry points and build their nests. They also gnaw on electrical wiring, which increases the risk of fire hazards.
2. Noise Disturbance: Possums are nocturnal, so they are most active during the night. Scratching, scurrying, and thumping sounds in the ceiling or walls can be disruptive to your sleep.
3. Health Risks: Possums can carry diseases, such as leptospirosis, and parasites like ticks and fleas. Although possums themselves rarely pose a direct threat to humans, their waste can cause contamination and unpleasant odors.
4. Legal Protection: As possums are protected in Australia, improper removal or harm can lead to hefty fines. It’s important to use a professional possum removal service that follows the legal guidelines for safe and humane possum management.

The Role of Professional Possum Catchers in Melbourne

When you discover a possum in your home, it’s best to avoid handling the situation yourself. Possums can be aggressive when cornered or if they feel their young are threatened. Moreover, untrained handling can lead to injury or illegal harm to the animal.

Specific Pest Control in Melbourne specializes in humane and effective possum removal. Our trained experts know how to safely capture and relocate possums according to local regulations. Here’s why you should consider professional possum removal:

• Safe Removal: We ensure that no harm comes to the possum or your property during the removal process.
• Legal Compliance: As possums are a protected species, we adhere to all legal requirements for their safe and humane relocation.
• Prevention: Our services include inspecting your property for potential entry points and offering recommendations for sealing them to prevent future infestations.

Tips for Preventing Possum Infestations

Prevention is always better than dealing with an infestation. Here are some practical tips to prevent possums from entering your property:

1. Seal Entry Points: Inspect your roof, vents, and crawl spaces for any gaps or holes where possums can enter. Use mesh wire or other durable materials to seal these entry points.
2. Trim Tree Branches: Possums use tree branches to gain access to roofs, so ensure that branches are trimmed and kept at a safe distance from your home.
3. Secure Garbage Bins: Possums are opportunistic eaters and may rummage through your trash for food. Keep your garbage bins tightly sealed and stored in a secure area.
4. Install Motion-Activated Lights: Possums are nocturnal and tend to avoid well-lit areas. Installing motion-activated lights around your home can deter them from approaching.

Understanding the difference between possums and opossums is essential, especially in regions like Melbourne, where possums are a common part of urban wildlife. While possums are protected animals, their presence in homes can be problematic. At Specific Pest Control, we offer safe and legal possum removal services to ensure your home is protected while adhering to wildlife regulations.

If you’re experiencing issues with possums in Melbourne, don’t hesitate to reach out to Specific Pest Control. Our expert team is ready to help you manage the situation quickly and effectively. Contact us today for a consultation and keep your property free from possum-related disruptions.