[300winmag]

I'd say it would have been a safe shot with #8s, except for traffic on the road. At that angle, stray shot would probably come down about 200 yards away.

How about live-trapping him, and then take care of business at point-blank range? That's what my cousin does for raccoons in an area less built-up than yours.

[HairOfTheDog]

We’ve considered live trapping. It’d be easier, if less sporting, than trying to scramble out there if and when we happen to see them. Just haven’t gotten around to it.

Live traps at the feed store are around $50.

But I read on the internet that a home-made trap can be built by tipping a garbage can at about 45 degrees and leaning it against something the possum can climb up on, and then baiting it with cat food. The possum will climb in, tip the can upright, and can’t jump out.