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what does possum scat look like

what does possum scat look like

3 min read 05-02-2025
what does possum scat look like

Possums, those nocturnal marsupials, often leave behind clues to their presence in your yard or garden. One of the most common signs is their scat (droppings). Understanding what possum scat looks like can help you confirm their presence and take appropriate action. This comprehensive guide will help you identify possum droppings and differentiate them from other animals' waste.

Identifying Possum Droppings: A Visual Guide

Possum scat is easily distinguishable from other animals' waste once you know what to look for. Here's a breakdown of its key characteristics:

Shape and Size

  • Shape: Possum droppings are typically cylindrical or slightly curved. They're not perfectly formed like dog feces, but rather a bit more irregular and often clumped together.
  • Size: They range in size from about ½ inch to 1 inch long and about ¼ inch in diameter. The size can vary depending on the possum's size and diet.

Color and Texture

  • Color: Fresh possum scat is typically dark brown or black. Older droppings may be lighter in color due to weathering and sun exposure.
  • Texture: The texture is typically soft and moist when fresh, becoming dry and crumbly as it ages. It often contains undigested plant matter.

Content

  • Undigested Material: Possum scat frequently contains visible remnants of the possum's diet. This might include seeds, berries, insects, and small bits of bone. The presence of these undigested materials is a key identifier.
  • Lack of Strong Odor: Unlike the scat of some other animals, possum droppings don't usually have a particularly strong or offensive odor.

What Possum Scat Doesn't Look Like

To accurately identify possum scat, it's helpful to know what it doesn't resemble. Here are some key differences from other common animals:

  • Dog or Cat Feces: These are usually larger and more formed than possum scat. They often have a distinctive odor.
  • Raccoon Droppings: Raccoon scat is larger and more varied in shape than possum scat. It often contains berries or other undigested food items, but typically in larger chunks.
  • Squirrel Droppings: Squirrel droppings are much smaller and more pellet-like than possum scat.

Where to Find Possum Scat

Possums are nocturnal creatures, so you're more likely to find their droppings in areas they frequent at night. Common locations include:

  • Under decks and sheds: These provide shelter and protection from predators.
  • Near garbage cans: Possums are opportunistic feeders and are attracted to easily accessible food sources.
  • Along fences and walls: Possums often travel along these boundaries.
  • In gardens and flowerbeds: They forage for insects and other food sources in these areas.

Dealing with Possum Droppings

While possum scat itself doesn't pose a direct health risk, it's still wise to take precautions. Always wear gloves when cleaning up animal droppings to avoid potential exposure to parasites or bacteria. Dispose of the scat in a sealed bag in the trash.

If you have a significant possum problem, consider contacting a wildlife removal professional. They can safely and humanely remove the possums from your property.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is possum scat dangerous?

A: While not directly dangerous, it's wise to handle possum scat carefully. It's best to wear gloves when cleaning it up due to the potential presence of parasites and bacteria.

Q: How can I tell the difference between possum scat and rat droppings?

A: Rat droppings are much smaller and darker than possum scat. They are also more uniformly shaped, while possum droppings are more irregular.

Q: What should I do if I find a lot of possum scat in my yard?

A: If you're finding a large amount of possum scat, it indicates a possum may be living nearby. Secure any food sources that might be attracting them, and consider contacting a wildlife removal specialist if the problem persists.

This guide should help you confidently identify possum scat. Remember, if you're unsure about the source of any animal droppings, it's always best to err on the side of caution and wear gloves when cleaning them up.

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