Should I trap and relocate opossums? in Connecticut | Opossum

Find help...

Connecticut > Animal is under my porch, deck or shed > Opossum

Transport and release of opossums is illegal in most states and is not recommended because survival of released animals is often severely reduced and can result in the creation of new problems near the release locations.

Opossums are not particularly wary and are relatively easy to live trap. Use box or cage traps (7-inch x 7-inch x 24-inch) and bait them with cat food, fish, fruit, or marshmallows. Set traps at dusk, near dens or in areas frequented by problem opossums.

Animal-proof any opening that may provide escape refuge prior to releasing trapped opossums on your property. Cover openings with sturdy galvanized wire or hardware cloth attached to the lower edge and buried underground, slanting outward one to two feet.

Very young opossums stay in the female's pouch, but, when older, cling to her back or remain close by. Anyone trapping during the breeding seasons should check for young that may have fallen off or been left behind. Either delay trapping until young are independent enough to be trapped or ensure the entire litter can be removed.

For assistance in resolving human-wildlife conflicts involving opossums contact a licensed wildlife control operator in your area.

Laws and regulations to be aware of

Regulations for Connecticut

Trapping and shooting general information for homeowners Outside of regulated seasons, homeowners are strictly prohibited from trapping and shooting wildlife, unless the animal has been causing property damage or is an obvious threat to public health and safety. If trapping and/or shooting is undertaken under these circumstances, homeowners must still comply with the state’s regulated season trapping laws, which regulate trap types and sizes, baits and lures, location and placement, and how often traps must be checked Homeowners must also comply with regulated season firearms laws, which regulate allowable weapons and ammunition, and discharge and shooting times. Finally, homeowners must comply with all state and local firearms regulations and restrictions, and any other applicable local ordinances. For regulated season trapping and shooting regulations and any other information on the regulated season, see the CT Hunting and Trapping Guide. Please see the CT Law Library for information on state firearms regulations. Contact your municipality for information on local firearms restrictions and other applicable local ordinances.
Regulated trapping season There is a regulated season for this species during which it may be trapped by a licensed trapper. If hiring a contractor to trap any animal from your property, you should ask to see licenses and/or permits before any trapping activity begins. Please contact the DEEP Wildlife Division at (860) 424-3011 or see the CT Hunting and Trapping Guide for more information.

While we attempt to provide guidance about state and federal regulations pertaining to specific species and control techniques, we do not provide information about local jurisdictions (city, town, county, etc.) where regulations may be more restrictive, especially as it applies to discharge of firearms, transport of animals or use of trapping equipment. Contact your local city or county government to inquire further. No guarantee is made that information (or lack of information) associated with a species or control technique is completely accurate or current. You should become familiar with federal, state and local laws before beginning any wildlife control activities.

Was this solution helpful?

Yes No