Possum & Opossums

Possum Facts

Although also known as possums, opossums are native to North America while possums refer more to the Australian species. Oftentimes the two terms are used interchangeably. Opossums measure between 15 and 20 inches long. Their bodies that can be brown, gray, or even yellowish brown. Sometimes the darker coloring around their small, beady black eyes makes it seem like they’re wearing a mask. Their often hairless, rat-like tails are very recognizable.

Mating occurs year-round and is usually dependent on weather conditions and food availability. Their diet consists of a wide range of things from insects, carrion, plants, fruit, grain, and eggs to small birds, worms, and toads. Possums and opossums are nocturnal and will usually only feed at night. In some cases, they can carry a variety of parasites and diseases.

Possum Damage

These pests will often raid your yard in search of food. If you’ve got animals, they’ll want to munch on the house pet’s kibble. If you’ve got birds, bird seed is fair game. Any garbage you’ve got lying around will probably be strewn all over the place as they look for a free meal. If they get inside your house, it is not uncommon for them to make a mess of attics or crawlspaces as they hunt. They also can carry a parasite in their feces that can contaminate food and water sources for horses called equine protozoal myelitis. This is a disease that affects their nervous system and can cause lameness. Mange, a disease that deteriorates the coat of animals, is also carried by these critters.

While it is rare, it’s also possible for opossums to carry rabies. This can affect the nervous system and cause severe, flu-like symptoms that may result in death if left unchecked. If you come into contact with these animals, seek immediate medical attention to make sure you don’t become infected. They will growl, hiss, or screech if they feel they are in danger. You might also notice chewed remains of eggs or mauled chickens if you’re on a farm. Possum tracks resemble small, human hands with widespread fingers. Their soft, green droppings can be found around the yard and near their dens.

Types of Possums

Possum Identification

Possums and opossums are ugly. They are most recognizable by their dark beady eyes and their long hairless tails that they will use to hang upside down from trees. Their feet resemble human hands as their fingers are spread wide apart. When driving at night, you may see their eyes in the reflection of your headlights. It’s most likely an opossum. They are commonly known for playing dead as a defense mechanism from predators.

Possums in the Yard & Garden

You’ll find these critters in several different environments. From dry states to tropical forests, grasslands, mountains, temperate forests, and even your backyard, opossums can easily adapt to most anywhere. You’ll find them near streams and swamps, as well as under buildings, brush heaps, in logs, trees, or in old squirrel nests.