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Possums: Misunderstood Backyard Visitors | The Truth About Opossums in Johns Creek, GA

Opossums (commonly called “possums” in the South) are one of the most misunderstood animals we encounter around homes in Johns Creek and throughout North Georgia. Many homeowners associate them with disease, aggression, or even tick control—but much of that reputation is either exaggerated or outdated.

This article breaks down the facts, clears up common myths, and explains the real role possums play around your property.

The Tick Myth: Do Possums Really Eat Thousands of Ticks?

For years, claims circulated that possums eat thousands of ticks per day. This idea originated from controlled lab observations where ticks were placed on possums.

More recent evaluations referenced by organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and National Wildlife Federation show that this claim is overstated and not supported in real-world environments.

Field-based findings indicate:

  • Wild possums do not consume ticks in large numbers
  • Tick consumption is minimal and inconsistent
  • They should not be relied on for tick control

They may eat a few ticks while grooming, but they are not a meaningful solution for reducing tick populations.

What Possums Actually Do Well

Natural Nighttime Cleanup Crew

Possums are opportunistic scavengers and play a helpful role in removing:

  • Dead animals and small carcasses
  • Food scraps left outdoors
  • Fallen fruit

This helps reduce odors and limits what attracts other nuisance wildlife.

Light Pest Control

While not specialists, possums will eat:

  • Insects and beetles
  • Cockroaches
  • Occasionally small rodents

Their impact is modest, but they do contribute to keeping certain pest populations in check.

Low Aggression and Minimal Risk

Possums are not aggressive animals. In most cases, they will:

  • Avoid confrontation
  • Freeze or “play dead” when threatened
  • Retreat rather than defend

They also have a lower body temperature than most mammals, which makes them less likely to carry rabies compared to animals like raccoons or foxes—though risk is never zero.

Common Misconceptions About Possums

“Possums Are Dangerous”

False. They are defensive animals, not aggressive ones. Most encounters end with the possum leaving the area.

“They Spread Disease Everywhere”

Like any wild animal, possums can carry parasites, but they are not considered a high-risk species in typical residential settings.

“They Will Damage Your Home”

Possums are not destructive like squirrels or raccoons. However, they may:

  • Shelter under decks or sheds
  • Enter crawlspaces if access is available
  • AND bring with them a bunch of fleas

These are usually temporary situations, not long-term infestations.

When Possums Become a Problem

Even though possums are generally low-impact, they can become an issue when they start using your property as shelter or a food source.

You may need professional help if:

  • A possum is living under your home, deck, or shed
  • It is repeatedly accessing pet food or trash

The Bottom Line

Possums are not the “tick-eating solution” they were once believed to be—but they are also far from dangerous pests.

They are best viewed as low-impact, nighttime scavengers that help clean up organic waste and contribute modestly to pest control.

Like most wildlife, they are beneficial at a distance—but should not be allowed to take up residence in or around your home.

Possum Control & Removal in Johns Creek, GA

If a possum has moved onto your property, Southern Wildlife Management provides humane trapping and removal services along with long-term solutions to prevent re-entry.

Call us to schedule service: (678)935-5900
or learn more at: https://southernpest.biz