Grade A Critter is North Atlanta’s leading provider of wildlife management and control services. We specialize in offering high-quality, reliable solutions to address a wide variety of wildlife concerns that may arise on your property. While our region is home to a diverse range of animals, today, we focus on a particularly troublesome pest that many homeowners encounter: opossums. Despite being often perceived as harmless scavengers, these creatures can present significant challenges for residents.

Virginia Opossums: A Growing Concern

In North Atlanta, the Virginia opossum is the most commonly encountered species, and it is the only marsupial native to the United States. While they may appear innocuous or even charming at first glance, these animals can become major pests when they invade residential areas, creating a host of problems for homeowners.

The Issues Caused by Opossums

Opossums can create a variety of issues, making them unwelcome guests in any home. One of the primary concerns is sanitation. These animals are notorious for rummaging through trash, scattering refuse across your property and creating a mess. Additionally, they often seek shelter in areas like under decks, attics, or crawl spaces, leaving behind waste that contributes to an unsanitary environment. This not only makes your home unpleasant but also poses health risks, as these animals can carry diseases such as leptospirosis and tuberculosis.

Opossums are also known to raid gardens, stealing fruits, vegetables, and even pet food left outdoors. Their nocturnal behavior can disturb the peace, with the sounds of scurrying and clawing during the quiet hours of the night. Furthermore, these animals can produce a range of vocalizations, adding an additional layer of noise disruption that many homeowners find unsettling.

The Dangers of DIY Solutions

While the idea of addressing an opossum issue through do-it-yourself methods may seem tempting, these approaches are typically ineffective for long-term control. For example, many individuals attempt to set traps, but trapping and relocating wildlife involves complex legal considerations. Without professional knowledge, handling this issue improperly can pose risks to both humans and animals.

Additionally, attempting to manage opossums on your own exposes you to potential health hazards, as these animals carry various diseases. A bite or scratch could result in infection, requiring medical attention. Moreover, DIY efforts often fail to address the root cause of the infestation, meaning that the problem is likely to persist or recur.

Understanding Opossums’ Role in Nature

Though opossums have been around for at least 65 million years, their fascinating traits do not mitigate the challenges they present when they invade human habitats. These creatures possess a unique immunity to snake venom and can consume large quantities of ticks—up to 5,000 in a single season—thereby reducing the risk of Lyme disease. While these qualities are remarkable, they do not outweigh the issues caused by opossums in residential areas.

Professional Opossum Control

Given the complexities and potential dangers associated with managing an opossum infestation, professional intervention is essential. With over a decade of experience in wildlife management, Grade A Critter is well-equipped to handle these specific challenges. Our team employs humane and effective methods to safely remove the animals and identify entry points, ensuring that your home remains free from future invasions.

If you are dealing with an opossum or other wildlife issue in the North Atlanta area, Grade A Critter is here to assist you. Contact us today for a thorough inspection, and let our expert team provide you with the peace of mind you deserve. With Grade A Critter, you're not just getting service—you're getting the best.