Opossum Removal & Control in NYC & NJ
Opossum calls in NYC and New Jersey often start when an animal shelters in an attic, shed, deck, crawl space, yard, garbage area, or pet-food area. Animal Control NY/NJ inspects the activity, plans removal, and helps reduce repeat access.
Food, Shelter, and Quiet Access Can Attract Opossums
A good opossum plan checks where the animal is sheltering, what it is feeding on, whether there are droppings or odor concerns, and how to reduce access after the active issue is addressed.
We inspect shelter areas and food sources together
Opossum activity often continues when the food source remains. We look at the den area, access path, garbage or pet food access, droppings, odor, and places the animal can hide.
- Attics and garages
- Sheds and crawl spaces
- Decks and porches
- Garbage and compost areas
- Outdoor pet food
- Gardens and vegetation
- Droppings and odor areas
- Entry gaps and den sites

Our process
Opossum Service Starts With Inspection and a Removal Plan
Inspection
We locate activity areas, den sites, access points, food sources, droppings, and odor concerns.
Removal planning
The plan depends on where the opossum is located, how it is entering or returning, and which approach is appropriate for the property and jurisdiction.
Exclusion
After activity is addressed, openings and shelter areas can be closed or corrected.
Prevention
We discuss trash control, pet food, yard conditions, cleanup concerns, and ways to reduce future visits.
Do Not Pick Up or Corner an Opossum
Opossums may hiss, bare their teeth, or defend themselves if cornered. Keep pets and children away, avoid direct handling, and call for help if one is inside, trapped, injured, or repeatedly using the property. If a person is bitten or scratched, wash the wound and contact a medical provider or local health department for guidance. Wildlife-control requirements vary by state and circumstance; see applicable New York wildlife guidance or New Jersey wildlife guidance before attempting to trap, relocate, or seal an active wildlife opening.
Opossum Service in New York City and New Jersey
Animal Control NY/NJ helps with opossum inspection, removal planning, exclusion guidance, droppings concerns, odor concerns, and prevention-focused service across New York City and covered New Jersey service areas. Service is available in New York City, including Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, the Bronx, and Staten Island, with additional covered New Jersey service areas such as Freehold, Wall Township, Marlboro, Manalapan, and selected shore communities.
NYC: 646-741-4333 NJ: 732-387-4135
Related services
Raccoon removal · Squirrel removal · Animal damage repair · Attic restoration · Wildlife removal FAQ · Contact us
Common questions from property owners
Why is an opossum coming onto my property?
Opossums are often attracted by garbage, pet food, compost, shelter, insects, garden food, and quiet spaces under decks, sheds, or porches.
Are opossums dangerous?
They are usually defensive rather than aggressive, but they can bite or scratch if cornered or handled. Keep pets away and avoid direct contact.
Can opossums get into attics?
Yes. Opossums can use openings into attics, garages, crawl spaces, and sheds when access is available.
Do opossums leave odor or droppings?
Yes. Droppings, urine, nesting material, and dead animal odor can create cleanup concerns depending on where the activity occurred.
How do I prevent opossums from returning?
Secure garbage, remove outdoor pet food, close openings after activity is resolved, reduce shelter areas, and address cleanup or odor issues.
Not sure what is causing the problem?
Our wildlife removal FAQ and glossary explains common signs, entry points, and service terms for NYC and NJ property owners.
Need Opossum Help in NYC or NJ?
Call with what you are seeing: an opossum in the yard, attic, shed, deck, crawl space, garbage area, garden, or another part of the property.
