Where are Opossum found in the wild?

These remarkable creatures can be found throughout North America, from the forests to the grasslands and even the bustling city streets! Opossums thrive in various habitats, such as woodlands, wetlands, and suburban areas, showing off their adaptability and resilience as they explore different environments.

Opossum

Meet the fearless, furry clean-up crew of the night!

The Basics

Scientific Name

Didelphis virginiana

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Location

North America

Average size

2.5 feet long including tail

diet

Fruits, insects, small animals

lifespan

2 to 4 years

Let’s Explore

Overview

The opossum is a unique mammal that roams North America. This little critter can grow up to 2.5 feet long, including its long, hairless tail that helps with balance.
Opossums belong to the class Mammalia and have some adorable and interesting traits! They have a tendency to play dead when frightened, a clever trick that comes in handy when faced with predators—talk about a master of disguise!
These nocturnal creatures enjoy a diet filled with fruits, insects, and even small animals, making them nature's clean-up crew. Opossums can eat pesky pests like ticks, helping keep the environment healthy and happy!
With a lifespan of 2 to 4 years, opossums experience a lot in their short lives. They are great at adapting to different environments and can even thrive in urban areas, showing that they know how to hustle and bustle with the best of them!
Opossums are part of the family Didelidae and belong to the order Didelphimorphia. These marsupials carry their babies in a pouch, just like kangaroos, giving them a special bond with their little ones.

Where can you find a Opossum in the wild?

What does a Opossum eat?

How big can a Opossum grow?

How long does a Opossum typically live?

What is the conservation status of the Opossum?

What are the main threats to the Opossum?

wowzerful facts

Opossums have a special ability to play dead when they feel threatened. They can stay perfectly still for hours, looking lifeless to scare away predators!

These furry friends have a remarkable immune system. Opossums are resistant to rabies, making them among the safest animals to encounter at night!

Opossums have prehensile tails that help them balance while climbing. They can even hang from tree branches using their tail, much like acrobats!

These marsupials are incredible pest controllers. Opossums can eat up to 5,000 ticks in one season, which helps reduce the risk of tick-borne diseases!