Opossums in the Garage? Debunking Myths and Managing Visits Safely

If you've discovered an opossum taking up temporary residence in your garage, you're not alone. In Southeast Michigan, it's common for these shy, nocturnal creatures to seek shelter in quiet, enclosed spaces—especially during colder months or when food is scarce. At Wildlife X Team of SE Michigan, we frequently respond to concerned homeowners dealing with unexpected opossum visits. But before you panic, let’s separate fact from fiction and talk about how to handle the situation safely and humanely.

Opossum Myths—Busted

Myth 1: Opossums are aggressive.
Reality: Opossums are far more afraid of you than you are of them. If threatened, they might bare their teeth or hiss, but they almost never attack. Most often, they’ll “play dead” to avoid conflict.

Myth 2: Opossums are dirty and spread disease.
Reality: Opossums are surprisingly clean animals. They groom themselves meticulously and are less likely to carry rabies than most mammals due to their low body temperature. They even help control ticks and pests, playing a beneficial role in suburban ecosystems.

Myth 3: They’re destructive to homes.
Reality: While opossums may occasionally dig through garbage or nest in accessible areas, they rarely cause structural damage. Their presence in a garage is usually temporary and opportunistic.

Why Are They in My Garage?

Garages provide the perfect storm of comfort: shelter, darkness, and sometimes even a food source like pet food, garbage, or compost bins. Open garage doors or damaged siding can give wildlife easy entry. Opossums may take shelter during extreme weather, nesting season, or while scavenging for food.

How to Manage a Garage Encounter

If you find an opossum in your garage, here’s what you can do:

  • Stay calm. Avoid cornering the animal. Give it space to leave on its own.

  • Leave a clear exit path. Open doors or windows, and remove barriers that might trap the animal inside.

  • Avoid handling it yourself. Though opossums are not typically aggressive, wild animals can become defensive when stressed.

  • Remove attractants. Store pet food and trash securely. Keep the garage clean and sealed to prevent repeat visits.

When to Call a Professional

If the opossum refuses to leave or you suspect a den with young, it’s time to call in professionals. At Wildlife X Team of SE Michigan, our trained specialists use humane methods to remove opossums safely and identify how they entered in the first place. We also offer exclusion services to seal up entry points and prevent future intrusions.

Prevention Tips

To reduce the chances of opossums wandering into your garage, make a habit of closing garage doors consistently, especially at night when these nocturnal animals are most active. Inspect your home’s exterior for holes, gaps, or damaged vents, and repair any potential entry points, particularly around the foundation and siding. Store garbage, compost, and pet food in sealed containers to avoid attracting wildlife with smells or easy access to food. For added deterrence, consider installing motion-activated lights or sound devices that can discourage nighttime visits without harming the animals.

Respecting Wildlife While Protecting Your Home

Opossums are misunderstood creatures that pose little threat and even offer ecological benefits. Still, their presence in your garage is best handled with care and respect—for both your home and the animal. The Wildlife X Team of SE Michigan is here to help you manage these situations safely, effectively, and humanely.