Opossums

Opossum Biology and Habit

The Virginia opossum, Didelphis virginia, is an ex- tremely unique mammal with many distinguishing physical and behavioral attributes. The opossum is the only marsupial (with pouch) located in North America. Distribution is from the east to west coast and their northern range is limited only by severe weather.

This animal is quite shy and inoffensive, but will of- ten hiss and bear its teeth when threatened. The opos- sum has 50 teeth, which is more than any other mam- mal in North America. One extraordinary display is “playing possum”, which is a defensive strategy against a threat or predator (it plays dead). This act is achieved by rolling over, shutting its eyes, opening its mouth, and going limp; the animal may even hang out its tongue and drool. The definite mechanism behind this is still unknown, but it seems to be a temporary paraly- sis brought on by shock that can last from a few min- utes up to several hours.

Opossums are opportunistic omnivores. Their diet consists primarily of carrion, insects, amphibians, earthworms, small mammals, vegetables, fruits and berries, while apples and corn are favorites. Rattle- snakes are also a part of their diet, as opossums have an immunity to the deadly snake venom.

Their diet correlates with their lifestyle and behav- ior. The opossum is an adaptable, nocturnal, solitary animal that wanders in woody and open areas along ru- ral and suburban habitats. They are dependent on others for their homes and cover. The opossum uses aban- doned dens or man-made structures, such as woodpiles and decks. Frequently, they are found under decks, crawl spaces, and sheds. They are expert swimmers and climbers, aided by their naked, prehensile tail.
The reproduction of this mammal is unique as well. They have 2-3 litters per year, with an average of seven

Range of the Opossum in North America young per litter. The young are about the size of a navy bean when they are born, and will nurse in the mother’s pouch for up to 60 days. Opossum popula- tions have a high mortality rate. Influences of the high mortalities are from eating carrion off the high- ways, and they themselves becoming road-killed.

Opossum Damage and Concerns

Opossums are often considered nuisance ani- mals. They are found near homes getting into com- post piles, garbage, bird feeders and pet food, along with destroying bird nests. These animals dig around foundations and backyard areas, and may chew or gnaw on woody structures as well. Since the opossum does not build its own den it may be- come an inhabitant in or under man-made struc- tures.
There are few health concerns with opossums. They are occasional carriers of rabies and fleas, and the ticks they harbor can transmit Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. Opossums pose little, if any, signifi- cant threat to humans.

Opossum Control

A few methods are implemented to control opossums. One technique is prevention of animal entry by animal proofing or exclusion. Removing feeding sites such as bird feeder droppings, placing trash in sealed containers, and not leaving pet food outside will have unwanted animals moving on to other areas.

Another effective technique to control these ani- mals is humanely live-trapping them. A cage trap is baited with fruits, vegetables or canned cat food.

Opossum Management

To successfully manage an opossum population you must have an integrated pest management plan. Critter Control uses more than one approach to eradicate and exclude these nuisance animals from your home and surrounding areas.