Opossum (Didelphis marsupialis)

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Opossum (Didelphidae: Didelphis marsupialis)

The Opossum (sometimes also called the Virginia Opossum) is found throughout the eastern United States, along the Pacific Coast as far north as Washington, and southward throughout much of Mexico. The Opossum has always been considered to be a southern species, but with milder winters in recent decades its range has been extending northward and the species is becoming more common. You can now find Opossums in the heart of downtown Washington, D.C. The Opossum is the only marsupial in North America.

Identifying Features: The gray or gray-brown color, the long-pointed face with beady eyes, the round and large ears, and the long, naked tail will immediately identify the Opossum.

Habitat: The Opossum is found in nearly every habitat of the Eastern Deciduous Forest including woodlands, along streams and lakes, farmlands, suburban areas, and even in the heart of major cities.

Food: The Opossum with eat nearly everything including fruits, vegetables, nuts, eggs, insects, and carrion.

Behavior: The Opossum is nocturnal and is not usually seen by most people. They seek shelter during the daytime in old dens or burrows of other animals, beneath houses or sheds, hollow logs, culverts, and under piles of brush. If threatened they may pretend to be dead (hence the phrase "playing possum"). Opossums live for up to 7 years.

Reproduction: Opossums have 1 or 2 litters per year and up to 14 young per litter. Opossums, in common with other marsupials, have a very short gestation period and the young are brooded inside a pouch like a kangaroo. The young are extremely small when born and live in the pouch for up to 2 months.

Notes: You are most likely to notice opossums in your neighborhood if you have a dog or cat. I had an opossum who regularly came into my house in upstate New York to steal food from the cats. Reports of very large, gray rats in the cities are probably Opossums.