Why is possum not running away?

Spotting a possum in your yard or near your home in Dallas isn’t unusual, but what can be alarming is when the animal doesn’t run away. Most people expect wild animals to scatter at the first sign of humans, so when a possum stays put, it often raises concern. This behavior can leave homeowners wondering if the animal is sick, injured, or posing a threat to their pets and family.

Possums have unique survival tactics that set them apart from other wildlife, and staying still is often one of them. Sometimes this is harmless, while other times it’s a red flag that something is wrong. Understanding why a possum isn’t running away is the first step in knowing how to respond safely and responsibly. That’s where professional guidance from AAAC Wildlife Removal of Dallas becomes important.

Learn more: How do you get a possum to leave?

Common Reasons a Possum Might Not Run Away

Playing Dead (Thanatosis)

One of the most well-known defense mechanisms of possums is their ability to “play dead,” also called thanatosis. When threatened, they may flop over, become stiff, and even release a foul odor to convince predators they are no longer a threat. This act can last anywhere from a few minutes to several hours, depending on the situation.

To an untrained eye, this behavior can be mistaken for serious illness or even death. However, once the possum feels safe again, it will usually recover and wander off as if nothing happened. If you see a possum lying still and not running away, it may just be relying on this instinctive survival strategy.

Injury or Illness

A possum that is injured or sick may not have the strength to move away quickly. Injuries from cars, predators, or falls can leave the animal weak and vulnerable, while illnesses or parasites may sap its energy. In these cases, the possum might sit still simply because it has no choice.

This is especially concerning because injured wildlife can carry diseases that pose risks to people and pets. If a possum seems lethargic, limping, or unable to respond to nearby activity, it’s best to keep your distance. Calling in professionals ensures both your safety and the humane handling of the animal.

Exhaustion or Starvation

Possums are scavengers, often traveling long distances at night in search of food. When food sources are scarce, they can become malnourished and exhausted, leading them to freeze or move sluggishly when spotted. Extreme weather, like hot Texas summers, can also worsen their fatigue.

A starving or dehydrated possum may be too weak to escape, which explains why it doesn’t run off when you approach. This condition requires careful evaluation, as the animal may need relocation to an environment where food and water are more available. It’s another reason why leaving the situation to wildlife experts is the safest option.

Young or Disoriented Possums

Juvenile possums often lack the instincts and confidence of adults, which can make them freeze instead of fleeing. Young possums separated from their mothers are especially vulnerable, sometimes sitting still in confusion when confronted with people or pets. Their small size can also make them hesitant to move quickly in unfamiliar territory.

Adult possums, too, can become disoriented if they’ve been chased, injured, or exposed to urban stressors like bright lights and loud noises. In these moments, staying still feels safer to them than running. While it may seem unusual, this behavior is simply their way of coping with fear and uncertainty.

Signs to Watch For

When a possum doesn’t run away, knowing how to interpret its behavior is important. Some signs point to normal possum instincts, while others suggest the animal may be sick, injured, or in distress.

• Stillness with Mouth Open
  If the possum is lying on its side with its mouth open, tongue out, and a foul odor present, it’s likely “playing possum.” This is a normal defense mechanism and doesn’t mean the animal is in danger.
• Labored Breathing or Visible Injuries
  Struggling to breathe, limping, bleeding, or visible wounds are strong indicators that the possum is injured or unwell. In this case, it may need professional attention immediately.
• Unresponsive to Noise or Movement
  A possum that doesn’t react at all to clapping, talking, or light movement nearby could be more than just scared. While “playing dead” possums eventually respond, one that remains unresponsive for long periods may be seriously ill.
• Active During the Day
  Possums are nocturnal, so seeing one out in the open during the day, especially if it seems sluggish or disoriented, is often a warning sign. Daytime activity can suggest illness, hunger, or displacement.
• Weak or Shaky Movements
  If the possum attempts to move but appears unstable, shaky, or unable to walk properly, this usually signals weakness from starvation, dehydration, or disease.

Recognizing these signs helps you decide if the animal should be left alone to recover or if it’s time to call a wildlife removal professional in Dallas.

Dangers of a Non-Moving Possum

A possum that isn’t running away may seem harmless, but it can pose several risks to both homeowners and pets. While possums are generally not aggressive, they can carry parasites like fleas, ticks, and mites that easily spread to animals and people. These pests can infest homes and yards, leading to costly treatments and uncomfortable bites.

Another concern is the possibility of disease. Possums are known to carry bacterial infections such as leptospirosis, which can contaminate soil, water, and surfaces where they linger. Pets that sniff or interact with a sick possum are at higher risk of exposure. In addition, although rabies is rare in possums due to their low body temperature, it is not impossible. Any unusual behavior should always be taken seriously.

Handling or trying to scare off a possum yourself also increases the chance of injury. A frightened or cornered possum may hiss, bare its teeth, or swipe with its claws in self-defense. These encounters are unnecessary and avoidable if you keep your distance and call professionals who know how to deal with wildlife safely.

What Homeowners Should Do

If you notice a possum that isn’t running away, the safest response is to remain calm and take the right steps to protect yourself, your family, and the animal.

• Observe from a Distance
  Give the possum space and time. Many times, it’s simply “playing possum” and will leave on its own once it feels safe again.
• Do Not Attempt to Handle It
  Avoid touching or trying to move the animal. Possums may scratch, bite, or spread parasites if handled without proper training and equipment.
• Keep Pets Away
  Bring pets indoors or keep them restrained until the possum has left. This prevents unnecessary confrontations and reduces the risk of disease or injury.
• Secure Food Sources
  Remove or cover trash cans, pet food bowls, and fallen fruit in your yard. Eliminating easy meals discourages possums from hanging around.
• Call a Wildlife Professional
  If the possum appears injured, sick, or refuses to leave after several hours, contact AAAC Wildlife Removal of Dallas. Professionals can humanely remove the animal and prevent repeat visits.

Taking these steps ensures the situation is handled safely while protecting both the possum and your household.

Professional Wildlife Removal in Dallas

Humane Assessment and Removal

When a possum refuses to run away, professional wildlife removal experts start by assessing the situation. Trained specialists can quickly determine if the animal is simply stressed, injured, or in need of relocation. This ensures that no unnecessary harm comes to the possum while keeping your household safe.

At AAAC Wildlife Removal of Dallas, humane practices are always the priority. Possums are carefully captured using safe techniques and then relocated to appropriate habitats where they can thrive without causing problems for homeowners. This approach balances community safety with respect for local wildlife.

Preventing Future Encounters

Removal is only part of the solution. Professionals also focus on preventing future encounters by inspecting your property for entry points and attractants. Possums often enter attics, crawlspaces, or sheds looking for shelter, and these vulnerable areas need to be sealed off properly.

By addressing food sources, securing trash, and installing barriers where needed, experts help ensure the problem doesn’t return. This preventative approach saves homeowners from repeat visits and gives peace of mind knowing the issue has been resolved long term.

Why Choose Local Dallas Experts

Wildlife behavior can vary depending on local conditions, and Dallas has its own challenges with urban possum activity. Local professionals are familiar with Texas regulations and best practices, ensuring the removal process is both legal and effective.

Choosing AAAC Wildlife Removal of Dallas means working with a team that understands the unique needs of homeowners in the area. Their experience and knowledge allow them to resolve problems quickly, safely, and in compliance with state laws, leaving you with a safer, possum-free property.

Conclusion: Understanding Possum Behavior

A possum that isn’t running away may seem strange, but in many cases, it’s simply following natural instincts. Playing dead, feeling overwhelmed, or being too young to know how to respond are all common reasons for this behavior. While these situations may resolve on their own, sometimes the animal’s lack of movement signals deeper issues like illness or injury.

For Dallas homeowners, the key is knowing how to respond safely. Keeping your distance, securing food sources, and monitoring the possum from afar are the best first steps. If the animal shows signs of distress, injury, or refuses to leave, professional help becomes the most responsible solution.

By turning to experts like AAAC Wildlife Removal of Dallas, you can ensure the possum is handled humanely and your home remains safe from future encounters. Understanding possum behavior not only gives you peace of mind but also helps maintain a healthy balance between people and wildlife in the community.

Call AAAC Wildlife Removal of Dallas Today

If you’re dealing with a possum that won’t run away, don’t take chances trying to handle the situation on your own. Our team at AAAC Wildlife Removal of Dallas has the training, tools, and local expertise to safely and humanely resolve the issue. From assessing the animal’s condition to relocating it properly, we make sure your home and family are protected every step of the way.

Beyond removal, we also help prevent future wildlife problems by identifying entry points, securing food sources, and offering long-term solutions that fit your property. Call AAAC Wildlife Removal of Dallas today and let us take the stress off your shoulders with fast, professional, and compassionate possum control.