Understanding Possum Diet and Preferences
What Possums Eat Naturally
Before you begin your trapping efforts, it’s essential to grasp what possums naturally enjoy eating. This knowledge will significantly influence your bait selection and ultimately boost your chances of success. These adaptable creatures are opportunistic omnivores, which means their diet varies depending on what’s available.
In the wild, possums feed on a diverse range of items. Fruits, especially those that are ripe and fallen, are a favorite. They’ll also devour vegetables, particularly those that are accessible on the ground. Insects, grubs, and other invertebrates are a vital part of their diet, providing essential protein. They will also scavenge for carrion, supplementing their diet with whatever they can find. Eggs are another attractive food source for possums, especially those found in accessible nests.
Knowing the natural preferences of the possum is key to formulating effective trap bait. You want to mimic the foods they already find enticing. By providing scents and flavors that align with their typical food sources, you can significantly improve your odds of successfully luring them into your trap.
Seasonal preferences also play a role. During times of plenty, when fruits and vegetables are abundant, they may be less drawn to traps. During leaner seasons, they may be more inclined to investigate any available food, making trapping easier. Pay attention to the season and adjust your food choices accordingly. If fruits are plentiful, you might consider other bait types for your possum food.
Top Food Choices for Possum Traps
Selecting the perfect possum food is where the magic begins. The right choice will pique their interest, lead them into the trap, and help you address the problem effectively. Here are some of the top-performing options, categorized for your convenience:
Strong-Smelling Proteins
Possums have a keen sense of smell, and strong odors often attract them. Protein-rich options are particularly enticing, as they fulfill their nutritional needs.
Canned Cat Food
Fish or meat-flavored cat food is an easily accessible and often highly effective option. The strong scent of fish or meat can travel through the air, drawing possums from a distance. It’s also readily available in most grocery stores. While it’s very good possum food, keep in mind that it can also attract other animals, such as stray cats or raccoons, so be prepared for that possibility. It can also be a bit messy, so consider placing it inside a small container within the trap.
Tuna or Sardines
These fish, known for their potent aroma, are excellent choices. The smell is a strong lure for the possum. These are also easy to obtain and offer a quick solution. Like canned cat food, however, it’s essential to be aware of the potential for attracting other animals, and to place it securely within the trap.
Cooked Chicken or Other Meats
Cooked chicken, leftover meat scraps, or even bacon can be irresistible. The scent of cooked meat is a powerful attractant for many animals. However, cooked meat can spoil relatively quickly, especially in warmer weather, so monitor the trap regularly to ensure the bait remains fresh. Also, be aware of other potential animals it could attract.
Sweet and Fruity Options
Possums have a sweet tooth. Incorporating fruit-based options into your trapping strategy can prove highly effective.
Overripe Fruit
Bananas, apples, peaches, and other fruits that are past their prime are great choices. The natural sugars release a potent aroma that lures possums. These are often inexpensive and readily available, especially if you have fruit trees in your yard. Ensure the fruit is sufficiently ripe, as this will enhance the scent and attraction.
Fruit Jam or Jelly
The sticky, sweet nature of jam and jelly makes it appealing. Spread it onto a piece of bread, crackers, or even directly onto the trigger plate. The scent also tends to linger, drawing possums in. The sticky texture can help keep them in the trap longer.
Other Effective Foods
Beyond protein and fruit, other options can be effective in attracting possums to your traps.
Peanut Butter
This ubiquitous staple has a strong, enticing aroma that many animals, including possums, find irresistible. Its sticky texture makes it an ideal choice for placing on the trigger plate or around the trap entrance. Again, be mindful that peanut butter can also attract other animals, so careful placement is key.
Commercial Possum Baits
Various commercially produced possum baits are available, often designed with specific attractants and scents. These are usually long-lasting and formulated for maximum appeal to possums. They are often convenient but might need to be ordered online or located at specialized stores. Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Eggs
While seemingly unusual, eggs can be a surprisingly effective bait. The scent is alluring, especially for hungry possums. Use raw or lightly cooked eggs, and be prepared for a bit of a mess, as eggs are fragile.
Baiting Techniques for Maximum Effectiveness
The right bait is crucial, but how you use it is just as important. The following techniques will help optimize your trapping efforts.
Placement of Food Within the Trap
Near the Trigger Plate
Position a portion of the possum food directly near the trigger plate. This will encourage the possum to step on the plate to access the bait, activating the trap mechanism.
Consider Spreading the Bait
To create a more enticing experience, consider spreading the bait in a trail leading into the trap. This encourages the possum to venture further inside, increasing the likelihood of a successful capture.
Placement of the Trap Itself
Where Possums Are Likely to Travel
Set your trap in locations where possums are known to frequent. This includes along fences, near garbage cans, under decks, or along walkways. These are often their preferred routes.
Consider Using Guiding Lines
Place visual cues, such as small branches or rocks, leading *towards* the trap entrance. This helps guide the possums towards the desired location, especially when it is hidden from view.
Scent Enhancement Techniques (Optional)
Using Food-Based Scent Trails Leading to the Trap
If you have a particularly stubborn possum, consider creating a scent trail leading to the trap. Place small amounts of food along the path the possum takes, gradually leading to the trap. Be consistent with the food type to ensure the most effective results.
Tips to Avoid Human Scent Transfer
Handle the trap and bait with gloves to minimize transferring your scent to the equipment. This will help keep the possums from becoming overly cautious.
Bait Replenishment Frequency
Inspect the traps regularly, preferably daily. Check the bait and replace it as needed, especially if it spoils or is consumed. Regular monitoring is key for humane trapping and successful results.
Important Considerations for Humane Trapping
Trapping possums, while necessary in certain situations, must be done humanely. Here are some key practices:
Checking Traps Regularly
Always check your traps at least once a day. This ensures the possum is not left trapped for an extended period without access to food, water, and shelter. More frequent checks, such as twice a day, are even better, especially during extreme weather.
Providing Water in the Trap
Place a shallow dish of water within the trap. Dehydration can be a significant stressor for trapped animals. Providing fresh water will help keep the possum hydrated until you can address the situation.
Releasing the Possum Safely
If you’re required to relocate the possum, know the regulations for your area. Always release the possum in a suitable habitat, away from residential areas, and where it can find food and shelter.
What to do if a Non-Target Animal Is Caught
If you trap an animal you did not intend to catch, release it immediately and unharmed. If the animal appears injured, contact local animal control or a wildlife rehabilitation center for assistance.
Understanding Local Laws and Regulations Regarding Trapping Possums
Always be aware of the specific rules and regulations in your area regarding trapping. Many municipalities have restrictions on trap types, bait, and release procedures. Failure to comply can result in fines or other legal consequences. It is important to research your local laws and comply.
Preventing Possum Problems (Beyond Trapping)
Trapping can provide a temporary solution. However, implementing strategies to prevent future possum problems is essential.
Securing Garbage Cans
Possums are often attracted to unsecured garbage. Use sturdy, animal-resistant garbage cans with tight-fitting lids. Keep the cans in a secure location, away from easy access.
Removing Food Sources from the Yard
Remove or limit access to other food sources. This includes fallen fruit, pet food left outside, and accessible compost piles.
Sealing Access Points to Your Home
Seal any gaps or openings in your home, such as those around pipes or under the eaves. Possums may seek shelter in these areas.
Conclusion
Selecting the right possum food is critical to attracting these animals into your traps. Strong-smelling proteins like canned cat food, tuna, and cooked chicken are effective choices. Fruits such as overripe bananas can also lure them.
Remember, humane trapping is essential. Always check your traps regularly, provide water, and comply with local laws. While trapping can address immediate issues, preventative measures, such as securing garbage cans and removing food sources, are vital to prevent future possum problems. By following these guidelines, you can effectively manage the possum issue in your area. It’s also worth researching local laws before you trap.
Final Advice: Remain patient and persistent. Possum trapping can be a trial-and-error process. If you do not catch a possum right away, adjust your approach, vary your possum food choices, and monitor the results.
