Opossum Removal, Possum Trapping & Control in Virginia

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Contact Us at (804) 729-0046 or toll-free at (888) 824-7383

Opossums (often called “possums” in Virginia) can become a real nuisance when they move under decks, into crawlspaces, or begin raiding trash, pet food, or chicken coops. We provide fast, humane opossum removal and trapping statewide in Virginia, plus exclusion services to help prevent repeat problems.

Opossum vs Possum (Are They the Same?)

In Virginia, “possum” usually refers to the Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana)—North America’s only native marsupial. They are opportunistic omnivores and will eat:

  • Garden vegetables and fruit
  • Trash and food scraps
  • Pet food left outside
  • Eggs and small poultry in some situations

They often shelter in:

  • Crawlspaces
  • Under porches, decks, sheds, and garages
  • Outbuildings and barns
  • Occasionally attics or wall voids

Signs You May Have an Opossum Problem

Common signs include:

  • Nighttime activity around trash cans or pet bowls
  • Tracks or droppings near foundations and patios
  • A den under a deck, shed, or porch
  • Strong odors (especially if one dies in a crawlspace)
  • Fleas/ticks/mites showing up after wildlife activity

Opossum Damage and Nuisance Issues in Virginia

Opossums can cause problems such as:

  • Tipping trash cans and scattering garbage
  • Eating pet food and contaminating feeding areas
  • Denning under structures and tearing insulation in crawlspaces
  • Disturbing poultry coops and nests
  • Creating sanitation issues from droppings and urine
  • Dying in crawlspaces or under buildings (odor + flies)

Health and Safety Concerns

Rabies risk

Opossums are considered less likely than some wildlife to carry rabies, but any wild animal can be infected. Avoid handling and call a professional if you suspect illness or unusual behavior.

Parasites and disease concerns

Opossums can carry parasites (fleas, ticks, mites, lice) and can be associated with multiple diseases. If you have horses, it’s also smart to limit wildlife access to feed and barns.

Our Opossum Removal Process (What Works)

1) Inspection and identification

We identify entry points, den locations, and attractants (trash, pet food, feed storage).

2) Humane trapping and removal

We use proven methods to remove the animal safely and resolve the immediate issue.

3) Exclusion and prevention (long-term fix)

If the opossum is denning under a structure, we can help prevent repeat problems with:

4) Cleanup guidance or service (when needed)

If there are droppings, nesting debris, or odor issues, we can advise on cleanup and next steps. For odor or carcass situations, see our Dead Animal Removal and Odor Help page.

How to Prevent Opossums (Simple Steps That Help)

If you want to reduce nighttime visits:

  • Feed pets indoors (or remove bowls before dusk)
  • Secure trash lids (bungee cords or locking lids)
  • Clean grills and grease traps
  • Pick up fallen fruit
  • Keep compost in sealed containers
  • Reduce hiding spots (brush piles, clutter, low decks)
  • Cover foundation openings and repair crawlspace doors
  • Trim branches away from roofs and avoid climbing plants near eaves

FAQ: Opossum (Possum) Removal in Virginia

Do you remove possums statewide in Virginia?

Yes. We provide opossum/possum trapping and removal statewide in Virginia.

Why is a possum living under my deck or shed?

It’s dry, protected, and safe from predators. If food sources are nearby, they may stay longer.

Will a possum leave on its own?

Sometimes, but denning animals often return nightly. If it’s in a crawlspace or under a structure, removal and exclusion are usually needed.

Can you keep them from coming back?

Yes. Exclusion (barriers, vent covers, sealing access points) and reducing attractants is the best long-term solution.

Do opossums cause odor issues?

They can, especially if one dies under a structure or in a crawlspace. We also provide dead animal removal and odor help.

Service Area: Statewide Virginia

We provide service across the Central Virginia, Northern Virginia, Tidewater / Hampton Roads, and the Shenandoah Valley / Southwest Virginia regions.

For the full list of the cities, counties and towns where we provide service, visit:

If you don’t see your city listed, contact us—we often serve nearby areas and can confirm availability quickly.

Contact Us for Opossum Removal in Virginia

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Contact Us at (804) 729-0046 or toll-free at (888) 824-7383