Opossum Proofing Your Galveston Yard (77555): Practical Tips That Work
Coastal humidity, gardens, and raised homes make Galveston irresistible to opossums. Here’s how to lock down crawlspaces, protect pets, and stop late-night raids.
Why Opossums Love Galveston
Between alley fruit trees, garden beds, and stilted homes, opossums have easy food and shelter. Coastal winds knock over trash lids and scatter food scraps, which become nightly buffets.
- Easy access to crawlspaces via broken vents or lattice gaps.
- Outdoor pet food, unsecured trash, and compost piles.
- Dense shrubs and decks that provide cool daytime shelter.
Risks & Damage You Can’t Ignore
Opossums carry fleas and can leave droppings around porches and crawlspaces. They also raid cat food bowls and overturn bins. While they are generally non-aggressive, cornered animals will defend themselves. Keep dogs leashed at night.
For health background, see the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension.
Yard & Crawlspace Proofing That Lasts
- Seal crawlspace vents with galvanized mesh and secure with screws.
- Install kick-plates or skirt mesh along deck bases to stop digging.
- Use latchable trash bins; avoid feeding pets outdoors at night.
- Add motion lights along fence lines and near food sources.
Local Example: 77555 Crawlspace Fix
A raised cottage with repeated visits had a 3-inch lattice gap near a hose bib. We installed skirt mesh, sealed vents, and relocated the food bin. Activity dropped 90% within a week, with no return after 60 days.
We detail a permanent plan and handle installation. Learn about our Wildlife Proofing services.
Humane Removal & Compliance
We use one-way doors and live traps when necessary, timed to avoid separating mothers and young. After activity stops, we seal entry points. For guidance, see TPWD nuisance wildlife and City of Galveston services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do opossums damage homes?
They can dig under decks, pull insulation, and leave droppings that attract pests. Damage costs rise when access points aren’t sealed.
Will repellents work long term?
They help short term but fail without sealing food sources and entry points. Mechanical proofing is the lasting solution.
Is relocation legal?
Laws vary by locality; we follow state guidance and prioritize humane options.
Do you service all of Galveston?
Yes. We prioritize 77555 and neighboring ZIPs (77550–77554), plus League City and Clear Lake.
Ready to proof your yard?
Stop nightly raids with a practical plan and professional sealing. We’ll inspect, remove, and proof to keep opossums out for good.
Call (281) 399-2666 • Book an inspection
Internal Links: Wildlife Proofing • Contact Us
Outbound Links: CDC One Health • Texas A&M AgriLife • TPWD Nuisance Wildlife • City of Galveston
Free Consultation
* Indicates required questions
Click here to leave us a review on Google.