What Bait Works The Best For Trapping Opossums?

Opossums are very unique little animals. They can also be quite unpleasant to have around. If you plan on baiting and trapping an opossum, it helps to know a little about them.

These animals can weigh up to fourteen pounds and have quite a strong musk that follows them. Their odor is one of the things that makes them such an unpleasant guest under a porch. It also tends to give away their presence.

Opossums like to live near water and prefer to stay in wooded areas. However, they will quickly take up residence in old sheds and under buildings. They also change their homesites frequently but never build their own.

Last, but not least, opossums are nocturnal. They are secretive animals that are most active at night. Knowing a little about their habits and preferences gives you the information you need to trap them safely and successfully.



What Opossums Eat

Opossums are opportunity mammals called omnivores. It basically means that they will eat anything that they come across. They have a very strong stomach and will even feed on the carcasses of other dead animals. That is why they are often seen near the road.

Opossums spend their lives traversing the same forty acres of land. They will eat fish, birds, mammals and crustaceans. However, their diet is not limited. They will also feed on grass, fruits, mushrooms, eggs and carcasses.

Baiting Opossums

The best type of food to bait an opossum is smelly food. They love canned pet food and seem to find it irresistible. Ripe fruit that is starting to turn also works well. Even fish such as sardines or canned fish will do the trick.

Now that you know what type of food to use, it is important to place it strategically. You should create a trail leading into the trap for the opossum to follow. Ensure that the food inside the trap is near the back so that the animal must enter the trap completely to get the reward.

Depending on the area, other animals may be attracted to the bait. Be sure to only set the trap at night when opossums are active. If you continue to catch other creatures, then consider using more fruit or even marshmallows.

Opossums love marshmallows and they don’t attract as many other creatures. If you bait your trap properly and set it at night, you should catch an opossum in no time.


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