Monterey opossums don’t build their own nests. This leads to them finding shelter in either the discarded nests of other animals or the homes of people. They are relatively small creatures and can get into small openings on your property. Occasionally they find themselves stuck and can die from hunger or dehydration. You are then left to clean up the mess.



How to find a dead California opossum
1. The easiest way to find a dead animal is to follow your nose. After a few days, they will start decomposing, and the smell will alert you to the problem.
2. Search in all of the spaces that they are able to gain access to. This includes crawl spaces and wall cavities.
3. Once you have located the carcass you will need to remove it. Depending on how long the animal has been dead, insect infestation will vary. You will need to contend with lice, ants and maggots. This makes it a very dirty job.
4. Make sure you are suitably protected. Wear overalls and gloves so that your skin does not make contact with the carcass. Be sure to wear a mask over your nose and mouth as breathing in the toxins can make you very ill.
5. Make sure that there are no live babies in the pouch, if it is a female opossum.
6. Put the opossum in a thick, airtight bag. It would be advisable to put it in multiple bags. This will prohibit any leaks.
7. Make sure to clean the area with disinfectant to keep from getting ill.
8. Now you will need to get rid of the body.

What do you do with the carcass?
Getting rid of a Monterey animal carcass is not as easy as it sounds. All of the bacteria and insect activity mean that you cannot throw it in the garbage. You cannot bury it, as other animals might be attracted to the smell and could dig it up. Some companies specialize in the removal of dead wildlife. They will come to you and collect the carcass. They will then incinerate it to prevent the spread of disease.

What will happen if you leave it?
• The smell will continue to get worse.
• Apart from the smell, there are negative implications or your health.
• The carcass will continue to attract insects.
• Other California animals might smell the decaying body and go in search of it.


Visit our Monterey wildlife control home page to learn more about us.