Virginia Opossum   Didelphis virginiana

   Opossums are very adaptable animals that thrive in a wide variety of habitats. Dens are usually simply constructed under forage or in a hollow tree trunk.  Opossums have been known to take up residence in cities, finding refuge in alleys and window wells.

Opossums are very secretive and nocturnal, and those who have observed them while they are active, notice a few behaviors that are very unique.  Opossums are usually sluggish, and amble slowly toward their destination, but will hiss, growl and bear its teeth if challenged.  If these tactics do not reroute a potential predator, the opossum may run, but it may also “play dead”.  By slowing down body processes and retreating into a coma-like state, predators will normally leave the scene.  Once the danger has passed, the opossum will “wake up” and carry on as before.

An opossum’s body is made up of many unique parts, which enable it to be one of the most agile members of the animal world.  First, the opossum has a prehensile tail, which is used almost like a fifth foot.  It is used for balance, grasping items like tree branches, and is also used to carry nesting materials.  Second, are the opposable “thumbs”, which help it grasp and hold items very efficiently, and also aid in climbing. Third, the opossum’s feet have ridges on the bottom used for traction on all surfaces.  Fourth, it has 50 teeth in its mouth, giving it the distinction of being the mammal with the largest number of teeth.  Next, the opossum’s ears are extremely thin, and very susceptible to frostbite.  In extreme conditions, parts of the paper-thin ears have actually broken off.  Lastly, the opossum is a marsupial, carrying its young in a pouch, much like a kangaroo.  Opossum young are born after only 12 days, and must find their way to the pouch to develop fully.  The opossum is the only North American marsupial.  Most other marsupials live in Australia.

Opossums, along with raccoons, are often regarded as pests, and blamed for “garbage robbing” in many areas.  Opossums are not free from blame, however, as a garbage can often contains the contents of a well-balanced opossum meal.

Opossums, as quickly as they can move on occasion, are often victims of speeding motorists.  As a nocturnal animal, the opossum’s eyes cannot adjust to changes in light effectively, and are rendered temporarily blind by car headlights.  Raccoons and skunks on occasion suffer the same fate as the opossum when faced with the bright lights of moving vehicles.