There are more than 60 different species of Opossums or often called Possums. The most common Opossum is the Virginia Possum. The Virginia Possum is the only marsupial (pouched mammal) found in the United States and Canada. When first born, Possums are as big as Honeybees. Possums can give birth to more than 20 babies a litter, but most few of them even survive. Possums are scavengers and will visit human homes and raid garbage cans, dumpsters, and other containers. Some can be found near road kills. Possums will hunt mice, snacks, insects, birds, worms, and even chickens. Opossums are climbers and spend most of their lives aloft. Possums are famous for “playing possums.” When threatened by dogs, wolves, foxes, and bobcats. They will flop in the air and close their eyes, and stick their tongues out and pretend to be dead. This may put the predator off guard and the possums can escape.

 

Author: James G

Published: 01/2012