What should I do if there’s a possum in my yard?

Spotting a possum in your yard can definitely catch you off guard, especially if you’re not sure what to do next. Possums, also called opossums, are fairly common in Dallas and nearby areas, often searching for food, shelter, or a quiet place to hide. While these animals are usually harmless and play an important role in the ecosystem, that doesn’t mean you want one hanging out near your home, your pets, or your family.

That’s where AAAC Wildlife Removal comes in. We help Dallas–Fort Worth homeowners handle possum sightings and removal safely, quickly, and humanely. If you’ve been wondering what steps to take after seeing a possum on your property, this guide breaks down everything from why possums show up to when it’s time to call in a professional.

Why Possums Show Up in Your Yard

Possums aren’t actively trying to move in—they usually wander into yards looking for easy resources. If your property offers accessible food, water, or shelter, that’s all it takes to grab their attention. This is especially true in residential neighborhoods around Dallas where wildlife and human spaces overlap.

The most common things that attract possums include:

• Unsecured trash cans or open compost bins
• Pet food or bird seed left outside overnight
• Fallen fruit from trees or vegetable gardens
• Overgrown shrubs, brush piles, or stacked wood
• Gaps under porches, sheds, or decks providing shelter

By identifying these possum-friendly features, you can start making small adjustments that help keep them away.

Are Possums Dangerous to You or Your Pets?

While possums might look a little intimidating when startled, they’re generally not aggressive toward humans or pets. These animals prefer to avoid confrontation by playing dead or hissing rather than attacking. That said, possums can carry parasites like fleas and ticks, and they may transmit diseases such as leptospirosis or salmonella through their droppings or urine if they stick around long enough.

For pet owners, the bigger concern is the occasional scuffle. Curious dogs or outdoor cats might try to chase or corner a possum, leading to minor bites or scratches. While possums rarely cause serious harm, it’s always safer to keep your distance and contact a professional wildlife removal service like AAAC Wildlife Removal if you notice repeated visits or signs of nesting.

What to Do Immediately If You See a Possum in Your Yard

1. Stay Calm and Observe from a Distance

The first thing is not to panic—possums aren’t likely to charge at you or your pets. Instead of reacting quickly, take a moment to observe the animal’s behavior from a safe distance. Most possums will simply wander through, sniff around, and eventually leave on their own. Chasing or startling the possum can escalate the situation unnecessarily. It’s much safer for both you and the animal to let things play out naturally.

2. Do Not Attempt to Trap or Handle the Possum Yourself

While possums may look slow and easy to grab, attempting to trap or handle one yourself is risky. These animals can carry fleas, ticks, and diseases like leptospirosis or salmonella. A frightened possum might also scratch or bite in self-defense. Wildlife removal requires specific skills and equipment that most homeowners don’t have. Calling professionals like AAAC Wildlife Removal is always the safer option for both humans and animals.

3. Secure Pets and Keep Children Indoors

If you have outdoor pets or kids playing in the yard, bring them inside until the possum moves along. Dogs especially may try to chase or corner a possum, which could result in minor injuries for both animals. Children may also get curious and unintentionally get too close. It’s always better to create some separation while you figure out your next steps. Keeping everyone indoors ensures that no one gets too close and things stay calm.

4. Eliminate Immediate Food and Shelter Attractions

Take a look around your yard for things that may have attracted the possum in the first place. Open trash cans, leftover pet food, or fallen fruit can make your yard more appealing. If possible, secure those items right away and close off easy hiding spots like sheds or under-deck spaces. Reducing these attractants helps encourage the possum to move on. It also minimizes the chances of other wildlife showing up.

5. Contact a Licensed Wildlife Removal Professional

If the possum doesn’t leave after a few hours or if it looks injured or trapped, it’s time to call in help. AAAC Wildlife Removal offers humane possum removal services throughout Dallas and surrounding areas. Our team uses safe trapping and exclusion methods that comply with local wildlife regulations. We can also inspect your property to help prevent future visits. Instead of risking a DIY approach, let experienced professionals handle the situation safely.

How to Keep Possums Away From Your Property

The easiest way to avoid possum problems is by making your yard less inviting. Possums are attracted to easy food, water, and shelter sources, so your goal is to remove those temptations wherever possible. Small changes like locking trash cans and sealing access points can make a big difference in keeping wildlife away from your space.

Here are simple ways to keep possums off your property:

• Secure trash bins with tight-fitting lids to prevent scavenging.
• Remove outdoor pet food overnight so there’s nothing left for wildlife to snack on.
• Clean up fallen fruit or garden produce to eliminate easy food sources.
• Seal gaps under decks, sheds, and porches using wire mesh or fencing.
• Install motion-activated lights or sprinklers to startle and deter nocturnal animals.

Taking these steps doesn’t just help with possums—it reduces the chances of attracting raccoons, skunks, and other backyard visitors too.

When to Call a Professional Possum Removal Service

While a single possum passing through your yard isn’t always a big deal, there are clear signs it’s time to get expert help. If you notice the same possum returning night after night, or if you spot multiple animals or babies, that’s usually a sign they’ve found a reliable food source or shelter on your property. Another red flag is visible damage—possums may rip up insulation, chew wires, or create messes around trash areas. Ignoring these signs can lead to bigger headaches down the line.

AAAC Wildlife Removal offers licensed, humane possum removal services designed to handle these situations safely. Our team doesn’t just trap and remove the animal—we also inspect your property to identify entry points and prevent future visits. Whether you’re in Dallas, Fort Worth, or surrounding suburbs, our crew has the experience and tools to get the job done right. If you’re unsure what to do, calling for a professional inspection is always a smart first step.

Possum Removal Cost in Dallas and Surrounding Areas

The cost of professional possum removal in Dallas isn’t a one-size-fits-all number. Pricing depends on several factors, including how many possums are involved, how difficult it is to access their hiding spots, and whether property repairs or exclusion work is needed afterward. For example, removing a single possum from an open yard is simpler and generally less expensive than dealing with a family of possums living under your deck or inside your attic.

On average, homeowners can expect possum removal services to start around $150 to $500, with additional fees possible for follow-up visits or property sealing work. AAAC Wildlife Removal provides clear, upfront quotes based on an inspection of your specific situation. Our goal is always to give you a fair price while ensuring the problem is solved completely and humanely. If you’re dealing with possum issues around Dallas or nearby cities, we’re ready to help—just reach out for a custom quote today!

Why Choose AAAC Wildlife Removal for Possum Problems

1. Local Expertise You Can Rely On

AAAC Wildlife Removal specializes in handling possum issues specifically for homes and businesses around Dallas, Fort Worth, Plano, and nearby suburbs. Our team understands Texas wildlife laws and knows how to handle possum situations in a way that’s both humane and effective. We’re not general pest control—we focus solely on wildlife removal and prevention. That means you’re getting people who know exactly what they’re doing. Homeowners trust us because we deliver dependable results backed by years of hands-on experience.

2. Humane Trapping and Relocation Methods

We believe in treating animals ethically while protecting your property. AAAC Wildlife Removal uses live traps and relocation strategies that comply with local and federal regulations. Our goal is always to remove possums safely without causing harm to the animal or unnecessary stress to your household. Unlike DIY traps or harmful repellents, our methods are designed for long-term success. Choosing humane removal also helps keep the local ecosystem balanced.

3. Full Property Inspection Services

Our team doesn’t just remove the possum and call it a day—we thoroughly inspect your property for possible entry points and hiding spots. Whether it’s gaps under your deck or broken vent covers, we look for the small things homeowners often miss. By identifying these access points, we help prevent future wildlife issues. This proactive approach saves you from dealing with repeat problems down the road. AAAC Wildlife Removal’s inspection service is included as part of our possum control package.

4. Exclusion and Repair Work After Removal

Possums can cause damage if they’ve been nesting on your property, especially under homes or inside attics. AAAC Wildlife Removal offers exclusion and repair services to seal up entry points and fix any minor damage left behind. We use wildlife-proof materials designed to withstand future tampering. Our team focuses on creating a long-term barrier that keeps not just possums out, but also raccoons, skunks, and other wildlife. You won’t have to hire a separate contractor—our crew handles it all.

5. Transparent Pricing and Guaranteed Service

We believe in giving customers clear, honest pricing without hidden fees or surprise charges. After inspecting your property, AAAC Wildlife Removal provides a straightforward quote based on the actual scope of work needed. If you choose to move forward, we guarantee our service so you’re not left wondering if the problem was really solved. Our team is fully licensed and insured for your protection. That level of transparency and reliability is why so many Dallas-area homeowners choose us for possum removal.

Conclusion

Having a possum show up in your yard doesn’t mean you need to panic—but it also isn’t something you should ignore. Possums can bring along mess, minor damage, and potential health risks if they stick around too long. By understanding why they show up, taking a few preventative steps, and knowing when to call a professional, you can keep your property safe and possum-free.

If you’re dealing with a possum problem in Dallas or nearby areas, AAAC Wildlife Removal is here to help. Our team offers safe, humane removal backed by expert property inspections and exclusion services that give you long-term peace of mind. Call us today and let’s get your yard back to normal—fast, easy, and hassle-free!