A highly adaptable, prolific animal that often feigns death if surprised or threatened. Resembling a large rat, the opossum is largely white with a long, hairless tail. When “playing possum,” the animal will involuntarily draw back its lips, bare its teeth, and saliva will foam around the mouth. Contrary to popular belief, adult opossums do not hang from trees by their tails. However, babies may dangle temporarily.
Forest, Wetland, Urban
Found from southern Canada to northern Costa Rica, making it the northernmost marsupial in the world.
Spring, Summer, Fall
Abundant
Nocturnal
Opossums are extremely opportunistic feeders. They eat a variety of foods based on the season, their habitat and their range. Their diets include vertebrates, invertebrates, plant material, fruits, grains and carrion.
North American opossums are solitary, nocturnal and terrestrial; however, they are also very adept climbers and may den in trees. This species begins its nightly activities around dusk and remains active until dawn; this may vary slightly throughout the year. These animals do not hibernate; however, they reduce their activity during the bitter cold seasons. During their active period, males travel greater distances, whereas females shows greater variation in their movement.
Least Concern
