Opossum in Window Well, Pool or Trash Can? How to Help It Out
It’s a common morning surprise: an opossum in window well, staring up from the gravel at the bottom. Pools, trash cans and other steep-sided spaces trap opossums too. The good news is that many can climb out on their own once you give them a way. Here’s how to help without getting too close.
Helping an Opossum in Window Well Spaces
Wildlife Illinois notes that window wells without covers commonly trap wildlife, including opossums. For larger animals like opossums, it recommends placing a rough board in the well at an angle so the animal can climb out on its own.
- Use a rough board, not a smooth one, so claws can grip.
- Lower it gently from above. Don’t climb into the well.
- Step away. Opossums are mostly nocturnal, so it may wait until dark to leave.
- Keep pets inside until it’s gone.
Pools and Trash Cans
The same idea applies: give it a way out rather than reaching in. If an opossum is in a trash can and you can do it safely, tip the can gently onto its side from a distance and step back. An opossum in a swimming pool needs help right away, so call us while you keep people and pets away.
Don’t Handle It Bare-Handed
A frightened opossum may hiss, drool and show its teeth, then go limp. See opossum playing dead. Tufts Wildlife Clinic advises never using bare hands with wild mammals, because all mammals can carry rabies, and to avoid being bitten, licked or scratched. Our opossum rescue service contains trapped opossums gently in a ventilated carrier, never with bare hands.
When to Call
- It hasn’t left after a night with a board in place.
- It looks hurt, can’t walk normally, or there’s blood.
- It’s in a pool, a fence, a garage or another spot you can’t easily make an exit for.
- There are young with it, or tiny ones alone. See why we take opossums to a wildlife rehabber.
Prevent the Next One
Wildlife Illinois recommends a plastic or metal window well cover installed flush against the wall. The Ohio Division of Wildlife also suggests capping chimneys, vents and window wells to keep animals from getting trapped (ODNR Pub 310). Keep trash cans lidded so they’re less tempting to climb into.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I feed it while it’s stuck?
No. The Ohio Division of Wildlife says never give food or water to injured or orphaned wildlife.
Can I lift it out with a shovel?
Please don’t. It risks injury to the animal and a bite to you. Use a board or call.
Opossum Stuck and Can’t Get Out?
Our Opossum Rescue & Transport service is for opossums that are injured, orphaned or trapped. Call or text 419-614-6445 with a photo and your location, or use our contact page. We contain the animal gently in a ventilated carrier, never with bare hands, and drive it to a licensed wildlife rehabilitator for care. See opossum rescue. Opossums are the only mammals we rescue.
