What Does Opossum Scat Look Like?
Opossums can often be identified by the feces the pests leave behind. A typical opossum dropping is around 3/4" in diameter and tapers off at the ends. Opossum droppings average 1–2" in length, are smooth on the sides, and may be covered in white or yellowish mold growth. Fresh opossum droppings are brown in color. A unique characteristic of opossum fecal matter is that it tends to curl as the animal excretes the waste.
Signs of Infestation
Signs that an opossum may be living nearby include exterior building damage, disappearing pet food, scratching noises, and an unpleasant fecal odor. Opossums are present in almost any landscape, but their numbers can decline in northern states during severe winters. Critter Control of Kaw Valley specializes in professional removal of pest animals — Contact Us to schedule an appointment!
Hazards of Opossum Feces
Like most animal dung, opossum scat often contains bacteria such as Salmonella and Leptospirosis. Opossums have been found carrying the highly infectious Equine Protozoal Myoleoncephalitis (EPM), which attacks the nervous system of horses. The discovery of opossum droppings should be taken seriously and handled with the utmost care to avoid contamination.
Opossums are known to be aggressive creatures, particularly when defending their dens and young. To ensure the safe removal of opossums and their scat, use a local pest control specialist, like those at Critter Control of Kaw Valley, who are trained and certified to handle these problems.