Opossum Removal and Facts

Opossums vs. Possums. It’s important to note that “opossums” and “possums” are not the same. In North America, the term “opossum” refers to the Virginia opossum and other species in the order Didelphimorphia. In contrast, “possum” refers to marsupials of the order Phalangeriformes found in Australia and New Guinea. Opossums represent the only marsupials inhabiting the area north of Mexico. Unlike other mammals, marsupials set themselves apart through their unique reproductive process; they deliver underdeveloped young who then continue their growth within the safety of the mother’s pouch. Furthermore, one of the most well-known behaviors of opossums is their tendency to play dead when threatened. This act, known as thanatosis, is an involuntary response rather than a conscious decision. It can last from a few minutes to several hours. Opossums are omnivores with a diet that includes fruits, vegetables, insects, small mammals, and carrion. They are known to help control pest populations by eating ticks, cockroaches, and even small rodents. Remarkably, opossums are immune to the venom of many snakes, including rattlesnakes, cottonmouths, and other pit vipers. This allows them to prey on these snakes without risk of harm. An opossum is capable of having up to three litters annually, enriching the species’ population dynamics. On average, a litter consists of 8 to 9 offspring, though in some remarkable cases, a single litter might contain as many as 20 young opossums! These young opossums continue their growth and development inside their mother’s pouch. This reproductive strategy allows opossums to rapidly increase their numbers and adapt to their environments efficiently.