Interesting Wildlife Facts About Opossums
- Opossums are North America’s only marsupial, carrying their young in a pouch until they are old enough to survive independently.
- With 50 teeth—the most of any North American mammal and unique to opossums—they can consume a wide variety of foods.
- Resistant to many snake venoms, opossums prey on venomous snakes, contributing to ecosystem balance.
- Known for their defense mechanism, opossums “play dead” when threatened, emitting a foul odor to deter predators.
- Opossums have prehensile tails and opposable thumbs, which aid in climbing and grasping objects.
Nuisance Issues with Opossums
While generally harmless, opossums can create problems when they encroach on residential or commercial properties:
- Yard and Garden Damage: Opossums dig through gardens and compost bins in search of food.
- Trash Raiding: They frequently rummage through garbage, leaving a mess behind.
- Structural Damage: Opossums may take shelter under decks, in crawl spaces, or inside attics, causing odors and potential damage.
- Pet Food Theft: Outdoor pet food bowls attract opossums, leading to potential confrontations with pets.
- Noise and Odors: Their presence can be disruptive, especially if they nest or leave waste in confined areas.
Opossum Behavior
- Activity Patterns: Opossums are nocturnal and are most active during the night while foraging for food.
- Diet: They are opportunistic omnivores, eating insects, fruits, small animals, and even carrion.
- Habitat Preferences: Opossums adapt well to urban and suburban environments, using natural or man-made shelters for nesting.
- Defense Mechanisms: Apart from “playing dead,” opossums hiss, growl, and bare their teeth to scare away threats.
Opossums and Diseases
- Leptospirosis: This bacterial disease can be transmitted through contact with opossum urine or contaminated water.
- Salmonella: Handling opossums or their waste can lead to the spread of Salmonella bacteria.
- Parasites: Opossums can harbor mites and other parasites that may infest homes or other animals.
Where in the US Are Opossums Found?
Opossums are widespread throughout the United States, thriving in various climates and habitats, but are less common in areas with extreme cold:
- Urban and Suburban Areas: They often live in neighborhoods, taking advantage of human-provided food sources.
- Forests and Woodlands: Opossums inhabit areas with ample tree cover and natural shelters.
- Rural Environments: Farms and agricultural areas provide access to crops, small animals, and other food.
- Wetlands and Coastal Regions: Opossums adapt well to environments near water sources, such as rivers and marshes.
Protecting Your Property from Opossums
To protect your property from opossums, begin by sealing any entry points, such as gaps in roofing, vents, and around doors and windows. Keep your yard clean by securing trash cans with tight-fitting lids and removing pet food, as these can attract opossums. Trim back tree branches that provide easy access to your roof or attic. If you have an attic or crawl space, ensure they are properly sealed and free of debris that could serve as nesting sites. Regularly inspect your property for signs of opossum activity, such as droppings or chewed wires, and address any issues promptly to prevent infestations.