Opossum entering a lawn - Opossum Removal

WHY CONTROL OPOSSUMS?

Hearing rustling under your deck or noticing droppings around your home? Opossums may already be nesting nearby.

These nocturnal animals often enter attics, crawl spaces, or sheds when temperatures drop — leading to odor, mess, and potential health risks

Professional removal is the fastest, safest way to restore your home’s comfort and cleanliness.

1. Health Risks

Opossums carry fleas, ticks, bacteria, and sometimes rabies that spread through droppings and nesting spots. Quick removal helps prevent sickness and keeps your home safe for family and pets.

2. Home Safety

They damage vents, insulation, and decks while spreading waste and odor. Early removal stops contamination and prevents costly repairs before winter.

3. Cleanliness and Aesthetics

Opossums leave behind sharp, sour odors and debris that linger in enclosed areas. Professional cleanup and sealing restore your home’s comfort and air quality.

Opossums are becoming more active this fall across Des Moines and nearby areas as they search for warm nesting spots.

Schedule Service today to have them removed safely and keep your home protected before colder weather drives them in for good.

OPOSSUM REMOVAL SERVICES

At Bobcat Wildlife & Pest Management, we handle opossum removal with a focus on safety, prevention, and respect for local wildlife. Our process is built to solve the problem completely — from the first inspection to long-term protection against future intrusions.

  • Humane Opossum Solutions

    We use certified humane methods to remove opossums without harm. Our approach focuses on guiding them out safely, then securing common denning spots like decks, crawl spaces, and sheds to prevent them from coming back.

  • Thorough Inspections

    Every service begins with a detailed inspection of your property. We look for droppings, damage, and entry points — from attics and crawl spaces to storage sheds — so we can understand exactly how the animals are getting in.

  • Long-Term Deterrence

    Once the opossums are removed, we reinforce vulnerable areas using durable exclusion materials and proven deterrence strategies. This prevents future nesting and keeps your property protected through Iowa’s changing seasons.

  • Safe for Everyone

    Our removal process is eco-friendly and family-safe. We never use poisons or harsh chemicals — just humane exclusion and sanitation methods that protect your home, pets, and the environment.

  • Tailored to You

    No two homes or infestations are alike. We create a removal and prevention plan based on your property’s layout, activity level, and season. The result is a lasting solution that keeps your home quiet, secure, and opossum-free.

OUR OPOSSUM REMOVAL PROCESS

Evaluation

We begin with a detailed inspection to confirm opossum activity and locate entry points. Our technicians check attics, decks, and crawl spaces to plan an effective removal strategy.

Intervention

We remove opossums using humane, low-stress methods that protect both your home and the animals. Sanitation steps follow to reduce odor and contamination.

Proactive Measures

After removal, we seal openings and provide simple prevention tips like closing crawl-space gaps and securing food sources. These steps keep opossums from returning through Iowa’s cooler seasons.

At Bobcat Wildlife & Pest Management, we focus on long-term protection through safe, humane exclusion. Schedule Service today for professional opossum removal that lasts.

WHAT IF IT’S NOT JUST OPOSSUMS?

Hearing noises, spotting droppings, or finding new damage that doesn’t quite fit an opossum problem? You’re not alone. At Bobcat Wildlife & Pest Management, we handle a full range of wildlife and pest issues across Central Iowa — all with the same humane, prevention-focused approach.

  • All-Around Wildlife Solutions

    Raccoons tipping over garbage cans? Squirrels nesting in the attic? We safely and humanely remove nuisance wildlife while sealing entry points to stop future activity.

  • Insect Infestations Handled

    From ants invading kitchens, our pest control methods target the source and prevent insects from coming back. Each treatment is customized for lasting protection.

  • Rodent Troubles Taken Care Of

    Mice or rats in walls or crawl spaces can multiply quickly. We locate entry points, remove infestations, and reinforce weak spots to keep your home rodent-free year-round.

Whatever the issue, you can count on Bobcat for fast, safe, and effective solutions that restore comfort and security to your home. Schedule Service today and let us take care of the problem — no matter what’s causing it.

HOW TO SPOT OPOSSUM ACTIVITY

Bats nesting in attic space

Opossums are nocturnal and usually go unnoticed until damage appears. Identifying early signs helps prevent nesting, odor, and contamination inside your home.

1. Nighttime Noises and Mess

Listen for rustling or scratching sounds after dark, or find tipped-over garbage cans — both clear signs opossums are foraging nearby.

2. Attic or Yard Damage

Torn insulation, disturbed gardens, or damaged ductwork often point to nesting or feeding activity. These signs mean it’s time for a professional inspection.

3. Tracks and Droppings

Look for small paw prints with opposable rear thumbs and scattered droppings near crawl spaces or muddy areas. These markings reveal regular travel paths.

MAIN ISSUES

  • Droppings

  • Severe Odor

  • Damage of Property

  • Contamination of Property

Frequently Asked Questions

Since 2008, Bobcat Wildlife & Pest Management has provided trusted wildlife removal across Central Iowa.

We specialize in humane, exclusion-based methods that remove opossums safely and prevent them from returning. Every service includes a detailed inspection, professional removal, and durable sealing to stop re-entry.

With over 17 years of hands-on experience, homeowners rely on us for reliable, long-term protection. Schedule Service today for help you can trust.

We typically schedule inspections within 1–2 business days, depending on demand.

Opossum activity increases during fall and winter when temperatures drop, so early scheduling helps prevent nesting before odor or damage begins.

If you’re hearing movement or finding droppings, contact us right away for a same-week visit. Quick action keeps cleanup and repair costs lower.

Our team uses humane live-trapping and exclusion to guide opossums out safely.

We never use poisons or harsh chemicals, ensuring each removal follows Iowa’s wildlife regulations.

Once all animals are out, we seal the access points they used to prevent future entry. This keeps your property protected long after removal.

Yes. All of our wildlife control methods are 100% safe for families, children, and pets.

We don’t use toxins or dangerous traps — just humane removal tools and exclusion barriers. You can remain at home during service without concern.

If you have small pets or sensitive areas on your property, we’ll take extra steps to keep them safe while we work.

Prevention begins with sealing crawl spaces, repairing foundation gaps, and securing food sources like pet dishes or trash bins.

Opossums are opportunistic and return to the same area if access remains. After removal, we provide a tailored prevention checklist to protect your home year-round.

You can also schedule seasonal inspections for added peace of mind.

Opossums enter homes and yards seeking warmth, shelter, and food — especially during Iowa’s cold months.

Decks, crawl spaces, and attics provide the perfect refuge. Open trash cans, pet food, or fallen fruit can attract them.

Sealing access points and removing attractants are the best ways to discourage nesting before winter.

While opossums rarely attack, they can carry fleas, ticks, bacteria that contaminate nesting areas or insulation, and sometimes rabies that spreads through droppings and nesting spots.

Their droppings may also trigger allergies or illness in pets. Prompt, humane removal ensures your home stays clean and safe. After removal, we can advise on cleaning and sanitation to restore your property’s health.

Watch for nighttime rustling, thumping, or scratching sounds under decks or inside attics. Droppings, musky odors, and overturned trash cans are also common signs.

Torn insulation or disturbed soil near foundations may point to nesting. A professional inspection confirms activity before contamination or odor spreads. Schedule Service today if you notice any of these warning signs.

DIY removal isn’t recommended. Opossums can bite when cornered, and improper trapping may violate Iowa wildlife laws. Handling them without training can also lead to contamination or injury.

Licensed professionals ensure the process is safe, humane, and fully compliant. Our team can handle everything from trapping to cleanup while keeping your property protected.

Yes. When a mother opossum is nesting with young, we remove them together to prevent separation. This approach follows humane standards and ensures the family relocates safely.

Once all animals are gone, we seal every access point and clean affected areas to prevent odors or re-nesting later in the season.

Most removals are completed within a few days, depending on how many animals and access points are found. Larger infestations or homes with multiple entry sites may take longer to secure.

After inspection, we’ll explain the timeline clearly and keep you updated until your home is fully protected.

Coverage depends on your insurance policy. Some plans include wildlife damage, while others do not.

We can provide inspection reports, photos, and documentation for your insurer if needed. Even when not covered, professional removal helps avoid higher costs from structural damage later on.

Opossums are most active at night and during Iowa’s fall and winter seasons, when they seek shelter from the cold.

You’re more likely to hear them moving under decks or in attics during these months. Scheduling removal before freezing temperatures helps prevent nesting and odor buildup.

Pricing depends on your property size, damage level, and how many entry points need repair.

We provide upfront estimates after inspection with no hidden fees. Investing in professional removal protects your home from further contamination and avoids future repair expenses.

Yes. Bobcat Wildlife & Pest Management offers seasonal inspection and prevention services across Central Iowa.

Our long-term wildlife protection plans help ensure your home stays pest-free year after year. Schedule Service anytime to discuss ongoing options for your property.

Why Choose Bobcat Wildlife & Pest Control

Proven Expertise

Our team’s accumulated experience in pest management equips us to deliver dependable solutions tailored to resolve your distinct challenges effectively.

Tailored Treatments

Understanding that no two pest issues are alike, we adapt our strategies to align with your particular situation, aiming for precise and successful outcomes.

Commitment to Quality

Quality is more than a standard for us; it’s a pledge. We use top-of-the-line products and cutting-edge techniques to deliver unparalleled results you can trust.

Exceptional Customer Care

Your satisfaction is our ultimate goal. From your initial inquiry to the final treatment, we’re committed to making your experience seamless and satisfactory.

Take Care Of Your Pest Problem Today

We service the entire Des Moines, IA metro area. Contact us today for the safe and efficient removal of your pest problem.

Service Pages Form
Molly Roffman Wosmansky

They do an amazing job with our pest control and keeping all the mosquitos at bay. I really appreciate how caring & respective Gene is towards these animals and rodents…

Molly Roffman Wosmansky, Des Moines, Iowa
Scott Crook

What a great experience Ronnie Hayes came to our place he came to our place assessed that we had a few raccoons in our attic. He even put a trap on the roof and for them out the same day then the relocated them. For a very responsible place.

Scott Crook, Des Moines, Iowa
Alison Kanne
Bobcat Wildlife & Pest Management came to my house to deal with a serious bat problem. I have had no issues with bats since they came, and the guy who did the work on my house was thorough and took obvious pride in his work. They are knowledgeable and thorough and don’t take the easy way out. It was clear that they really cared about solving my bat issue and I highly recommend them to anyone with a bat problem.
Alison Kanne, Des Moines, Iowa
Jayson Jones

Highly recommend using this company for any pest control needs and or wildlife issues.

Jayson Jones, Des Moines, Iowa
Margaret Branwen Dewey
Jared was super helpful, set up traps, and we are looking forward to a raccoon free attic.
Margaret Branwen Dewey, Des Moines, Iowa
Sophia O'Brien
Nate with Bobcat Pest was great to work with! I called in about a birds nest removal. He gave the roof a full inspection, cleaned out the nest/dead birds, and returned a week later to patch the hole. Very professional service.
Sophia O'Brien, Des Moines, Iowa
Knowledgeable, careful, and insightful-
I had the opportunity to meet with Nicole Spaulding from Bobcat Wildlife and Pest Management to learn more of what she does and to ask questions about their industry, fearing it affected my own (outdoor aquatic stock growth).
She took the time to share with me the ins-and-outs of her industry, genuinely caring for my concerns, resolving them completely in the end.
Grant Sodders, Des Moines, Iowa
Cortney Dierks

Thank you so much! We debated calling for a long time. When I finally did Blake came the very next day and trapped the squirrel who was the culprit of the damage. He fixed the damage too! We are so happy we finally called, wish we would have done it sooner! Thanks Blake!

Cortney Dierks, Des Moines, Iowa
Kayla Lynch Engebrecht

Highly recommend this group!!! Within 24 hours of my “something stinks” panic call, one of the techs, Ronnie, was at our place taking care of the animals that found their final resting place in our vents… and patched it up so we wouldn’t have this happen again. On time, efficient, and very knowledgeable!!

Kayla Lynch Engebrecht, Des Moines, Iowa