How to Bait an Opossum

Opossums are the largest type of marsupial in the Western Hemisphere and have a distinctive ratlike tail and hind feet. These marsupials can be an important component of the food chain by eating animals such as snakes and mice. However, they can also become pests by getting into cat or dog food bowls, especially if you keep the food in your garage. Many homeowners who have opossums hanging around in their yards worry about them biting their children. It is possible to bait and trap opossums for relocation.

Things You'll Need

  • Live trap
  • Bait
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Instructions

    • 1

      Determine the locations of opossum activity. If the opossums are causing problems in your yard or garden, set up a trap in this location. Find out where the animals are gaining access. If they are entering your house or garage, set up the trap there. The animals could be entering your home through a gap or open door.

    • 2

      Set the trap outside for several days before you bait it. This way, your scent will be covered up by an outside smell. You will have a better chance of catching the opossum if your scent is covered up.

    • 3

      Leave the trap in an area where you suspect opossum activity. Set bait in the trap to lure the opossum. Set the bait so it will trigger the door of the trap when the opossum eats it. Leave fruit such as apple or orange slices, although opossums will typically eat almost anything. Position some bait outside the trap to attract the opossum to it.