Opossums

Opossums are small, furry creatures native to North and South America. They are the only marsupial found in the United States, and have an interesting appearance and behavior. They have a long snout and a prehensile tail that helps them climb and hang from branches. Opossums are nocturnal and omnivorous, meaning they eat both plants and meat.

Meta Information

Scientific Name

Didelphis virginiana

Average Lifespan

Up to 4 years in the wild

Average Size

20-40 inches in length

Similar To

Kangaroos, Koalas, Sugar Gliders, Wombats

Lifecyle

Opossums are born after only 11-14 days of gestation, and are immediately transferred to the mother’s pouch. The young will stay in the pouch for another two months before they begin to venture out and explore. Opossums reach sexual maturity at around one year old and can live up to four years in the wild.

Diet

Opossums are omnivorous, meaning they eat both plants and meat. Their diet consists of fruits, vegetables, insects, eggs, and small animals.

Habitat

Opossums can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and even urban areas. They prefer to be near a source of water, and they make their dens in hollow trees, burrows, and rock crevices.

What are opossums?

Opossums are a type of marsupial native to North and South America. They are often referred to simply as "possums" but should not be confused with the Australian possum, which is a different species altogether. Opossums are most commonly found in wooded areas, but they can also be found in urban and suburban areas.
What do opossums eat?

Opossums are omnivores and will eat just about anything they can find. Their diet includes insects, small mammals, fruits, vegetables, and carrion. They are also known to eat garbage and pet food left outside. Opossums are scavengers and will eat almost anything they can find.
Are opossums dangerous?

Opossums are not typically dangerous to humans. They are not aggressive and will usually try to avoid confrontation. However, they may bite or scratch if they feel threatened or cornered. Opossums can carry diseases like rabies, so it is important to avoid contact with them and to keep pets vaccinated.
Do opossums play dead?

Yes, opossums are known for playing dead when threatened. This is a defense mechanism that they use to avoid predators. When an opossum plays dead, it will fall to the ground, become stiff, and release a foul odor to make itself unappealing to predators. This behavior is called "playing possum."
Can opossums climb trees?

Yes, opossums are excellent climbers and are able to climb trees and other structures. They have strong claws that allow them to grip onto branches and climb to safety. Opossums are also able to swim and can use this ability to escape danger or find food.
How long do opossums live?

Opossums have a relatively short lifespan, typically living only 2-4 years in the wild. However, they have been known to live up to 8 years in captivity.
Do opossums carry diseases?

Yes, like most wild animals, opossums can carry diseases. They are known carriers of diseases such as leptospirosis, tuberculosis, and spotted fever. Opossums can also carry fleas and ticks, which can transmit diseases to humans and pets. It is important to avoid contact with opossums and to keep pets vaccinated.
What is the difference between opossums and possums?

Opossums and possums are often used interchangeably, but they are actually different species. Opossums are native to North and South America, while possums are found in Australia and neighboring islands. Opossums are also marsupials, which means they carry their young in a pouch, while possums are not marsupials.
Do opossums make good pets?

No, opossums do not make good pets. They are wild animals and are not domesticated. It is illegal to keep opossums as pets in many states, and they require specialized care that most people are not equipped to provide. Additionally, opossums are nocturnal and may become destructive if kept in captivity.
How can I keep opossums away from my property?

Opossums are attracted to food sources, so it is important to eliminate any potential food sources on your property. This includes securing garbage cans, keeping pet food inside, and cleaning up fallen fruits and vegetables. It is also important to seal up any potential entry points, such as holes in fences or gaps in buildings. If opossums continue to be a problem, you can contact a wildlife removal service for assistance.
Are opossums beneficial to the ecosystem?

Yes, opossums play an important role in the ecosystem. They are scavengers and help clean up dead animals and other organic matter. This helps to control the spread of disease and keeps the environment clean. Opossums also eat insects and other small animals that can be harmful to crops and gardens. Additionally, opossums are prey for many other animals, so they help to support the food chain.

10 Fun Facts About

1. Opossums are immune to the venom of rattlesnakes, copperheads, and cottonmouths. 2. Opossums have 50 teeth, more than any other land mammal in North America. 3. Opossums have opposable thumbs on their hind feet, which helps them to climb. 4. Opossums have a special defense mechanism called “playing possum”, which involves them feigning death to ward off predators. 5. Opossums have a prehensile tail that helps them climb and hang from branches. 6. Opossums are one of the few animals that can eat and destroy ticks. 7. Opossums have a lifespan of up to four years in the wild. 8. Opossums are the only marsupial found in the United States. 9. Opossums are nocturnal, meaning they are active at night. 10. Opossums are excellent swimmers and can even hold their breath underwater for up to 5 minutes.