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Possums are not aggressive toward people or pets. They are shy critters that prefer to avoid confrontations. When threatened, they may hiss, growl, or display their teeth but are more likely to play dead as a defense mechanism. Possums rarely attack unless cornered or provoked. They are not a significant threat to pets, though a curious dog or cat might provoke a defensive reaction.

While you may be hearing squirrels running around your attic at night, these animals are usually more active during the day. If you hear scratching sounds in your attic at night, it’s mostly likely a mouse, raccoon, or bat. Investigate your roof, attic, and other entrances to your home to find signs that indicate the presence of squirrels or other pests.

You can often spot a venomous snake by looking for a few key physical characteristics. Venomous snakes typically have bulbous triangular-shaped heads due to their venomous sacks, whereas regular snake heads are more rounded and narrow. A venomous snake will also have narrow slits for pupils, while non-venomous snakes have more rounded pupils. It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the venomous snakes that are native to your area, but if you find a snake in your toilet, it’s best to keep a safe distance and call a professional for proper identification and removal.

The best deterrents for possums include securing trash cans with tight-fitting lids, removing outdoor food sources like pet food or fallen fruit, and trimming tree branches that provide access to your roof or an open window. Motion-activated lights or sprinklers can also startle and discourage them from visiting. Additionally, you can take advantage of their strong sense of smell by using garlic, onion, or commercial possum repellents to keep them off your property.