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What Is an Opossum?

Cynde Gregory
Cynde Gregory

Opossums are nocturnal marsupial mammals found in North, Central, and South America. They are not aggressive; when confronted by danger, they freeze and play dead. Their success in terms of niche survival can be explained by their exceptionally sturdy immune systems, their willingness to adapt to new habitats when their previous territory is threatened, and their ability to consume and digest a very wide range of foods in various stages of freshness or rot. Their robust reproductive cycles keep opossum populations thriving.

Poisonous snakebites have little to no effect on opossums. While it is possible for an opossum to carry rabies, it is very rare; they are 80% less likely than other undomesticated mammals to carry the virus. Their exceptionally strong immune systems do not translate into long life, however. On average, opossums only live until the age of four. Their many predators include owls, coyotes, domestic dogs and cats, and humankind.

Opossums are nocturnal marsupial mammals that are usually non-aggressive creatures.
Opossums are nocturnal marsupial mammals that are usually non-aggressive creatures.

Dielphimorphia, the scientific name for opossums, are arboreal dwellers with prehensile tails that grip branches like hands. Their flat feet lack arches to permit greater contact with the ground; the opposable "thumbs" on their rear feet help them grip and hold trunks and branches when climbing. Opossum jaws are relatively large, and their tiny incisors, triple-pointed molars, and oversized canine teeth mean they are able to eat whatever foods are available.

Opossums are immune from the bites of poisonous snakes.
Opossums are immune from the bites of poisonous snakes.

Highly opportunistic, in addition to trees, opossums will nest in burrows built and abandoned by other creatures or under homes, barns, or other human structures. They are not built for speed and cannot, therefore hunt. As a result, the opossum body has evolved to accept fruit, leaves, and insects as sources of nourishment. They feast on scavenged road kill and will eagerly consume snakes, frogs, and small rodents. They often live near humans, surviving off garbage and pet food.

Owls are one of the many predators of opossums.
Owls are one of the many predators of opossums.

The only North American marsupial, opossums can also be found in Central and South America. After a two-week gestation period, the blind newborns crawl through their mother’s fur to reach her pouch, where they attach to a teat. A jill, or female opossum, gives birth two or three times a year to as many as 20 babies less than half an inch (about 1.3 cm) in size. Of these, only 13 can survive, as that is the number of teats in her pouch. The jill’s ability to copulate with several males helps ensure a larger number of pups will survive.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an opossum and where can it be found?

An opossum is a marsupial native to the Americas, with the Virginia opossum being the only species found in the United States and Canada. These adaptable creatures inhabit diverse environments, from woodlands to urban areas, and are known for their ability to thrive in close proximity to humans.

How does the opossum's marsupial nature affect its reproduction?

Opossums, as marsupials, give birth to underdeveloped young that crawl into the mother's pouch to continue their development. This pouch, or marsupium, provides nourishment and protection for the joeys, which stay there for about two months before venturing out, clinging to their mother's back for several more weeks.

What unique defense mechanism do opossums have?

Opossums are famous for "playing dead" as a defense strategy. When threatened, they can enter a catatonic state that can last for hours, convincing predators that they are not a viable meal. This involuntary reaction, called thanatosis, also includes emitting a foul odor to mimic the smell of a decaying animal.

Are opossums beneficial to have around?

Opossums are indeed beneficial to have around as they help control pests and ticks. According to a study by the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies, a single opossum can consume about 5,000 ticks in a season, reducing the spread of tick-borne diseases. They also eat harmful insects and small rodents, contributing to ecological balance.

What do opossums typically eat?

Opossums are omnivores with a broad diet that includes fruits, nuts, insects, small rodents, birds, eggs, and carrion. Their opportunistic feeding habits make them excellent at scavenging, and they are known to rummage through trash cans in urban settings in search of food.

How long do opossums live, and what are their main threats?

Opossums have a relatively short lifespan, typically living only 2 to 4 years in the wild. Their main threats include predation by larger animals, vehicle collisions, and habitat loss. Despite these challenges, opossums are resilient creatures and are not currently considered endangered.

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    • Opossums are nocturnal marsupial mammals that are usually non-aggressive creatures.
      By: Brian Lasenby
      Opossums are nocturnal marsupial mammals that are usually non-aggressive creatures.
    • Opossums are immune from the bites of poisonous snakes.
      By: Wild Geese
      Opossums are immune from the bites of poisonous snakes.
    • Owls are one of the many predators of opossums.
      Owls are one of the many predators of opossums.