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December 17, 2025Wildlife

Protect Your Watkinsville, GA Home from Possum Intruders This December

As December rolls into Watkinsville, the cooler weather encourages us to spend more time indoors. Unfortunately, we’re not the only ones looking for a cozy spot to ride out the chill. Possums, one of Georgia’s most common nocturnal visitors, might decide your home is the perfect winter retreat. But you don’t want to worry about what you’ll find rummaging around your property at night.

While possums often get a bad rap, they are generally shy creatures. Still, having one take up residence in your attic, crawlspace, or under your deck can lead to some real headaches. This guide will walk you through why possums might be showing up this month and what you can do to keep possums away.

Why Possums Seek Shelter in December

Possums don’t hibernate, so they remain active throughout the winter. As temperatures drop, they need a warm, protected place to den. Our homes offer everything a possum could want shelter from the cold and easy access to food and water.

What makes your property so appealing?

• Warmth and Shelter: Unsealed crawlspaces, gaps in your attic, and the space under your porch or deck are ideal denning spots.
• Food Sources: Pet food left outside; unsecured trash cans, and fallen fruit are like a buffet for a hungry possum.
• A Place to Raise Young: While their main breeding season is earlier in the year, a warm den is always a welcome find.

The Trouble with Possum Houseguests

Having a possum move in might seem like a minor issue, but these critters can cause more disruption than you’d think. You shouldn’t have to deal with the issues they can create around your home.

• Unwanted Odors and Messes: Possums are not the tidiest tenants. They create latrines (designated toilet areas) that produce strong, unpleasant odors. Their droppings and urine can soil insulation and building materials, creating a mess that is difficult to clean.
• Property Damage: In their search for a nesting spot, possums can be quite destructive. They may tear up ductwork, rip through insulation, and gnaw on wood or wires. Infestation can lead to bothersome and costly repairs.
• A Nuisance to Pets: While possums prefer to avoid confrontation by “playing dead,” they will defend themselves if cornered by a curious dog or cat. This can result in bites or scratches for your furry family members.

How to Keep Possums Away from Your Home

Making your property less inviting is the most effective way to prevent possums from settling in. Here are a few simple steps you can take.

Secure Food and Trash

Possums are opportunistic eaters, so cutting off their food supply is your first line of defense.

• Bring pet food and water bowls inside every night.
• Use trash cans with tight-fitting, locking lids.
• Keep your grill clean and free of food residue.
• Clear away fallen fruit from trees in your yard.

Block Off Potential Entry Points

Don’t give them an open invitation! A thorough inspection of your home’s exterior can reveal potential weak spots.

• Seal any holes or gaps in your foundation, siding, and roofline with wire mesh or caulk.
• Install a chimney cap to block access.
• Use sturdy hardware cloth to close off openings under decks, sheds, and porches.

Make Your Yard Less Appealing

A little yard maintenance goes a long way.

• Trim overhanging tree branches that could give possums an easy pathway to your roof.
• Clear away brush piles, high weeds, and other debris where they might hide.

If you suspect a possum is living in your home, it’s best to contact a wildlife management professional. An expert can properly identify the animal, locate its den, and develop a responsible plan for removal and exclusion. We can help you get your home back to being just for you and your family. Reach out today for an inspection to keep possums away.