Possum Pals in Washington? Not Quite, But We Can Be Friends From Afar
Ah, the possum. Nature's little garbage disposal unit with a penchant for playing dead (really well, we might add). Maybe you've seen their adorable beady eyes peeking out from your trash can, or perhaps you're one of those folks who finds their hissing and swaying a delightful serenade. Whatever the case, you might be wondering: can I cuddle up with this marsupial marvel and call it a pet?
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Hold your opossums, Washingtonians! While these critters are undeniably interesting, Washington state law says nuh-uh to keeping them as pets. There are a couple of reasons for this:
- Wild at Heart: Opossums are, well, wild animals. They have specific needs that are tough to replicate in a domestic setting. Imagine trying to explain the allure of a decomposing pizza crust to your significant other – it's a recipe for disaster (literally, with that smell).
- Keeping it Wild, Keeping it Safe: Wild animals can carry diseases that can be dangerous to both humans and other pets. It's best to leave the opossums in their natural habitat (your compost pile definitely counts).
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| Can You Own A Possum In Washington State |
But Don't Despair, Possum Fancier!
Even though you can't share your couch with a cuddly critter, there are still ways to appreciate these fascinating marsupials.
- Observe from Afar: Opossums are nocturnal, so grab a flashlight and head outside after dark. You might just spot one rummaging through your yard, silently judging your recycling choices.
- Become a Backyard Buddy: Opossums are actually pretty beneficial to have around. They're excellent pest control, munching on insects, slugs, and even ticks. Leave out a shallow dish of water for them on hot days – they'll appreciate it (and maybe they'll tell their friends about the awesome human who provides hydration stations).
- Support Wildlife Rehabilitators: There are organizations dedicated to helping injured or orphaned opossums. Donations or volunteer work can be a great way to show your support for these quirky creatures.
FAQ: Your Possum Posse Pointers
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How to encourage opossums in my yard? Provide them with hiding spots like brush piles or woodchippings. They'll also appreciate a little nighttime snack – leave out some cat food or fruit.
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How to discourage opossums from raiding my compost bin? Secure your compost bin with a tight-fitting lid. Alternatively, consider a metal bin that's less inviting to curious critters.
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How to handle an opossum encounter? These guys are pretty shy. If you see one, just leave it alone. It will likely hiss and play dead, but it won't attack unless it feels cornered.
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How to tell if an opossum is sick? Signs of illness include lethargy, discharge from the eyes or nose, or unusual vocalizations. If you suspect a sick opossum, contact a wildlife rehabilitator.
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How to convince my neighbor their pet opossum is a bad idea? (See above sections on legality and safety concerns). Offer to build a fancy "opossum oasis" in your yard instead – it'll be way cooler (and legal).
So there you have it! While you can't exactly cuddle a possum in Washington, there are still plenty of ways to appreciate these unique and beneficial creatures. Just remember, admiration from afar is the best course of action for both you and your potential opossum pal.
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