If you live in an area where rats plague, you may have considered hiring a possum to care for the problem. After all, these creatures are known for eating just about anything, so it stands to reason that they would be able to take care of a rat infestation. But do possums eat rats?
The answer is yes, and possums will eat rats if given the opportunity. Possums are one of the few animals that are known to be able to eat rats without getting sick. This is because possums have a strong immune system that allows them to eat things that would make other animals sick.
The Possum
The possum is a small marsupial animal found in Australia and New Guinea. Possums are nocturnal creatures that live in trees and eat various plants and animals.
Due to their omnivorous diet, possums can survive in many different habitats. Possums are known for their ability to “play dead” when threatened by predators.
This tactic gives the possum time to escape or defend itself. Possums are also proficient climbers and have been known to climb into attics and chimneys in search of food.
While they are generally considered pests, possums can benefit the ecosystem. Possums help to control insect populations and disperse seeds through their droppings. In addition, their fur is used in making clothing and other products.
However, possums can also carry diseases that can harm humans, such as leptospirosis and toxoplasmosis. As a result, it is essential to take precautions when handling possums or their droppings.
Despite their potential drawbacks, possums play a vital role in the environment and are fascinating creatures to study. So, the next time you see one of these creatures, take a moment to appreciate them.
Possum Diet
Possums are omnivorous animals, which means they eat both plants and animals. Their diet varies depending on what is available to them in their environment, but it typically includes fruits, vegetables, insects, small mammals, and carrion.
Possums are opportunistic eaters, so they take advantage of whatever food is available. This makes them difficult to control when they become nuisances to humans, as they can quickly adapt to various diets.
However, it also makes them incredibly resilient animals that can thrive in many different environments.
Do Possums Eat Rats?
Possums are scavengers, meaning they eat just about anything they can find. This includes rats. While possums generally prefer to eat fruits and vegetables, they will consume meat if available.
Possums have been known to kill and eat rats. Possums are relatively small animals, so they cannot take down large prey. However, they can easily kill and eat a rat.
Possums typically hunt at night, which is when rats are active. If a possum finds a rat, it will kill it with a bite to the neck and then eat it. Possums will also sometimes eat dead rats that they find.
While possums will eat rats if, given the opportunity, they are not specialized predators of these rodents. Therefore, they are not particularly effective at controlling rat populations.
Is It Safe To Have Possums In Your Backyard
Possums are often considered pests, and many people go to great lengths to keep them out of their yards. However, possums can be valuable members of the ecosystem, and there are several reasons why you might want to welcome them into your backyard.
For one thing, possums are excellent at controlling rodent populations. They are also proficient climbers, which means they can help keep your trees healthy by eating unhealthy insects.
And, since possums are nocturnal animals, there is little chance they will bother you or your family during the day. Of course, some risks are associated with having possums in your yard, but as long as you take precautions – such as not leaving food out overnight – these risks can be minimized.
Ultimately, whether or not you choose to invite possums into your backyard is a personal decision. But it is worth keeping in mind that these often-maligned animals can have some benefits for both you and your property.
Conclusion
In conclusion, possums are not dangerous to humans and can be beneficial by eating rats and other pests.
If you see a possum on your property, there is no need to call animal control. Just leave them be and enjoy watching them do their thing!
Related Article: Do Possums Climb Trees?