raccoon or opossum?

Question

there is a tree in my backyard that was ripped up pretty good and the bark was taken. I believe it was a raccoon or a opossum. Anyone have a better idea? This is the suburbs of Michigan.

and if you do know what one it might be what is a good, humane, way to rid the backyard of such a pest.

Thanks

Answer 1

I've had both and you really would have to describe the animal you are seeing to do it. Either way you can discourage them from coming into your yard with coffee cans with punched holes in the top and around the sides filled with ammonia soaked rags. I'm fighting possums (pink tail) right now from establishing my yard as their home base and our fish and game recommends this method to not only deter opossums, but bobcats and racoons that we also have in the area.

Answer 2

No, this is foolishness. Brink a kettle of water almost to a boil and then submerge the possum until the fur comes off easily. Take out, rinse in cool water, then remove all the hair/fur. Soak overnight in strong brine, then rinse in fresh water. Cook with sweet potatoes. Follow a cooking direction for a stuffed turkey. Be sure to use a thermometer to verify the internal temp, even next to the bones is at least 170F degrees. To be sure, cook it a bit longer. Cover to keep it from drying out too much if needed.

Answer 3

I have a bark ripping problem with squirrels. Squirrels would be my guess. There's probably not much you can do about raccoons and 'possums other than keep your area free of food sources (kitchen trash). Better to view them as gifts of Nature rather than pests. They have their place and we all have to share.

Answer 4

You would need to put out a live trap......put it near the tree and put some bread in it...then take the varment into the bigger woods and turn it loose....

Answer 5

Sounds more like a bear

Answer 6

hate to burst the bubble of these people that answered but, it was a porcupine