Raccoons and possums are two medium-sized mammals that are native to the Americas. In fact, both “raccoon” and “opossum” stem from the Algonquin language. Arahkunem means “he scratches with the hands,” while opassum means “white dog.” Although raccoons have been in Ontario forever, opossums have gradually been migrating north and are therefore becoming more common. Given their similarities in diet and habitat, it may be hard to tell which animal is which. If there’s an animal on your property and you’re not sure how to deal with it, give us a call. We provide humane raccoon and opossum removal.
Possums, or opossums, are the only marsupials in the Americas. There are over 100 varieties globally, but there is only one species of opossum in Canada and the United States: the Virginia opossum. Also known as the North American opossum, this animal is roughly the size of a cat. It is nocturnal, solitary, and opportunistic in nature. Like all other opossums, the Virginia opossum has a long, hairless, prehensile tail that it uses to climb trees and carry small objects. It has a white face and grey, shaggy body. When it is very scared, the Virginia possum “plays possum” – it feigns death to deter predators.
Raccoons, on the other hand, are bigger than opossums, measuring between 40 and 70cm in body length. They have bushy, striped tails, and black masks that cover their eyes, like furry bandits. White fur surrounds their masks, while the rest of their bodies are greyish brown. Raccoons have relatively long arms and legs and dexterous, clawed paws that make them excellent climbers. Like Virginia opossums, raccoons live in the forests and prairies of North America, but both have adapted to city landscapes. Both are famous for getting into garbage cans and denning under porches, living alongside humans.
When are these creatures a concern?
Opossums are only a concern when they damage gardens. They are not dangerous. Opossums are actually beneficial to the environment because they eat ticks, mice, and other nasty pests. Removing one from the yard should be a last resort. Raccoons, however, are a bigger concern because they create large piles of waste, and they might try to get into the attic. Once indoors, raccoons cause a ton of damage. To keep these animals at bay, keep your garbage cans out of reach and tie them down. Don’t leave any pet food out and feed the birds sparingly.
If there is an animal living under your deck and you want it out, we can help. Our technicians are experienced in removing both possums and raccoons. We can find where the animal is hiding, then install a one-way door to the entrance of its den to force it out. The same logic applies to attics. In addition to removal, we offer complete wildlife-proofing in which we seal off potential entry points and cover vulnerabilities, like roof vents. Call Raccoon Control today for wildlife removal and exclusion in Ontario.