Skip to content

Opossum Removal Ocean Park: Urban Wildlife Control Near Santa Monica Beach

Opossums are nocturnal scavengers that take shelter under LA homes and in garages. While generally non-aggressive, they can carry fleas, ticks, and diseases, and should be humanely removed.

Last updated: July 6, 2026

Current Pest Advisory for Ocean Park (August 2026)

This August's hot, dry weather is driving two pests into Ocean Park homes: subterranean termites and roof rats. The dry conditions push termites to seek moisture in the damp crawlspaces of our early 1900s beach cottages, especially those near the ocean where salt spray and humidity are highest. The sandy soil, quick to drain, forces termites to tunnel upward into wooden foundations and floor joists, while the dense mix of old and new construction provides easy access. For roof rats, the heat and lack of rain are reducing their natural food sources, so they're moving from the Ballona Creek habitat and beach areas into residential neighborhoods like Ocean Park, seeking food and water. They easily climb the mature trees and utility lines along Main Street and can enter attics through gaps in rooflines, particularly in older cottages with overhanging eaves. Look for mud tubes on foundation walls and crawlspace piers, and discarded wings near windowsills—signs of termite swarms. For rats, check for droppings in garages or attics, gnaw marks on wires or wood, and scampering sounds at night. Also, inspect for rat burrows under concrete slabs or in garden soil, especially near compost piles. Below are the top-rated Santa Monica exterminators who specialize in these specific seasonal threats.

Subterranean Termite Roof Rat Ant

About Ocean Park, Santa Monica

🏘️ Neighborhood

A coastal neighborhood between the Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach, featuring a dense mix of beach cottages, modern condos, and commercial strips along Main Street. The ocean proximity creates high humidity and salt spray that can damage wood and attract silverfish and wood-boring beetles.

🏠 Housing

A blend of early 1900s beach cottages on raised foundations and contemporary multi-story townhouses on slabs. Older cottages have crawlspaces that are often damp, conducive to dry rot and termites.

🌄 Terrain & Climate

Flat coastal plain with sandy soils that drain quickly but are prone to erosion. The beach and Ballona Creek nearby provide habitats for gulls, raccoons, and rats that scavenge in the neighborhood.

ZIP codes: 90401, 90405

Opossum Removal in Ocean Park: Understanding Urban Marsupials

Ocean Park, with its mix of beachfront homes, parks, and commercial corridors, provides an ideal habitat for opossums. The proximity to Santa Monica Beach and the Ocean Park Library creates green corridors that these nocturnal marsupials use to travel and forage. Residents often encounter opossums in backyards, under decks, or near trash bins, especially during warmer months when food sources are abundant.

Opossums in Ocean Park are attracted to easily accessible food, including pet food left outdoors, fallen fruit from trees, and unsecured garbage. They seek shelter in crawl spaces, sheds, and under porches. The presence of urban gardens and compost piles can also draw them in. Understanding their nocturnal habits and seasonal activity peaks (spring and fall) helps residents implement effective prevention strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions About Opossum Removal in Ocean Park

Q: Why are opossums common in Ocean Park?

The area’s mix of residential homes, parks like Ocean Park Park, and proximity to the beach creates a mosaic of habitats. Abundant food sources from gardens, fruit trees, and outdoor pet feeding attract opossums. They are also drawn to the many crawl spaces and sheds common in older homes.

Q: What time of year are opossums most active in Ocean Park?

Opossums are active year-round in Southern California, but their activity peaks in spring (breeding season) and fall (when they prepare for winter). In Ocean Park, you may notice more sightings during these periods, especially after rain when food becomes scarce.

Q: How can I prevent opossums from entering my property?

Secure trash bins with tight-fitting lids, remove fallen fruit promptly, and avoid leaving pet food outdoors overnight. Seal gaps in foundations, vents, and under decks with heavy-duty wire mesh. Trim tree branches that overhang roofs, as opossums use them to access attics.

Other Pest Services in This Neighborhood

Opossum Removal in Nearby Neighborhoods

Opossum Removal in Ocean Park, Santa Monica costs $300–$1,000 (avg. $500) — humane trapping typically takes 2-5 days. Licensed professionals eliminate infestations safely with results guaranteed.

How Much Does Opossum Removal Cost in Ocean Park, Santa Monica?

Treatment Method Cost Range Time Required
humane trapping $300 – $580 2-5 days
exclusion $510 – $790 2-5 days
harborage removal $720 – $1,000 2-5 days
Average Total $$500 Per treatment

Reviewed by the FindMyPestPro Editorial Team

Connecting LA homeowners with licensed pest control professionals. Content is reviewed for accuracy and updated regularly. Last updated July 6, 2026.

Compare Opossum Removal Providers in Ocean Park, Santa Monica

Beach City Pest Control Monica CA

(2 reviews)

1902A Lincoln Blvd Ste 1221 unit 221, Santa Monica, CA 90405, USA

(833) 921-1469

quarterly-pest-control one-time-pest-treatment ant-extermination roach-extermination spider-extermination

Review Highlight

"We had a termite issue in our house which was becoming stressful. This team handled everything professionally from inspection to treatment. They used proper…"

0.4 mi away

Beach City Pest Control

(58 reviews)

1902 A Lincoln Blvd Ste 1221, Santa Monica, CA 90405, USA

(213) 816-5070

Visit Website

quarterly-pest-control one-time-pest-treatment ant-extermination roach-extermination spider-extermination

Review Highlight

"Beach City Pest Control was great. I had wasp/hornet issues. They responded quickly and gave a great price. Very professional as well. I called back and asked…"

0.4 mi away

Green Earth Pest Control, Inc.

(60 reviews)

100 Wilshire Blvd Suite 700, Santa Monica, CA 90401, USA

(310) 400-5200

Visit Website

quarterly-pest-control one-time-pest-treatment ant-extermination roach-extermination spider-extermination eco-friendly-pest-control

Review Highlight

"I’ve been with Green Earth Pest control for 10+ years on numerous properties. I called in today to find out the last time they came to the house (I’m set up…"

0.8 mi away

The Bee Removers

(22 reviews)

1705 Pico Blvd Ste 56, Santa Monica, CA 90405, USA

(310) 560-8113

Visit Website

quarterly-pest-control one-time-pest-treatment ant-extermination roach-extermination spider-extermination bee-removal yellow-jacket-control hornet-control

Review Highlight

"I had a serious bee problem with a hive on my property, and I’m so glad I found The Bee Removers. From the very first call, the owner, John, was incredibly…"

1.1 mi away

More Wildlife Services in Santa Monica

Browse other wildlife treatments available in Santa Monica, Westside.

Opossum Removal in Nearby Cities

Find opossum removal services across the Westside area.

Other Pest Control Services in Santa Monica

Explore additional pest control categories available in Santa Monica.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I identify a opossum problem in Ocean Park?

In Ocean Park, signs of opossum include large droppings, torn ductwork in crawlspaces, overturned garbage, distinctive tracks with opposable thumb, and sightings at dusk. If you notice any of these signs, contact a licensed pest control professional in Santa Monica for a thorough inspection.

What do opossum treatments cost in Ocean Park?

In Ocean Park, opossum removal costs $300 to $1,000 (avg. $500). Pricing depends on severity and property size. Opossums are North America's only marsupial and eat up to 5,000 ticks per season. They rarely carry rabies but can transmit flea-borne diseases.

Are pest treatments safe for pets and children in Ocean Park?

Yes, licensed pest control professionals in Ocean Park use EPA-registered products and follow strict safety protocols. Many local Santa Monica exterminators offer eco-friendly and pet-safe options. Discuss any concerns with your provider during the quote process.

What are the best opossum prevention tips for Ocean Park homes?

To prevent opossum in Ocean Park: seal crawlspace and deck openings, secure garbage bins, bring pet food indoors at night, and install one-way exclusion doors. Schedule regular inspections, especially before peak Year-round.