Opossums have not been a problem in Toronto but over the last ten years, their population has increased. Canadian winters have kept the pests away but that is changing.
Opossums and Cold Weather
An opossum faces dire conditions during colder months. The chilly weather usually leads to frostbite on its hairless tail, paws, or ears. The danger is made even more pressing because opossums don’t hibernate in winter.
Opossums are omnivores and scavengers. Their diet consists of almost everything. But unlike other mammals, they are not well adapted to winter weather. Unlike raccoons, they do not prepare for winter by fattening up. Unlike squirrels, opossums do not create food caches.
They will be on a constant search for shelter and food.
Opossum Behaviour in Winter
Dens are typically underground, beneath brush piles, or in hollowed trees. As opossums aren’t known to dig holes themselves, they take over the abandoned burrows of other animals. The pests line these dens with twigs and leaves for warmth and can spend days at a time inside to avoid the cold.
Opossums are known to den under porches or sheds. If opossums are under your house, they can find access points to get inside your basement or crawlspace. They are excellent climbers and can access your roof. If they find a gap, they can squeeze into your attic.
The animals scavenge in the garbage when food is scarce.