Opossum
The Opossum (Didelphimorphia) is a genus of marsupial native to the Americas. It is a unique and adaptable animal, with a prehensile tail that it uses to grip branches.
The Opossum is a nocturnal and omnivorous species, eating a wide variety of food, including fruits, insects, and carrion.
The Opossum is famous for its unique defense mechanism: when threatened, it will "play dead."
The Opossum is a crucial part of the ecosystem, and its presence is a testament to its ability to thrive in a variety of environments.
Opossum
Classification
Mammalia > Didelphimorphia > Didelphidae > Didelphis > D. virginiana
Native To
Conservation Status
Average Height
1.5 - 2 feet
(0.4 - 0.6 m)
Average Weight
4 - 14 lbs
(1.8 - 6.4 kg)
Average Life Span
1 - 2 years
Gestation Period
12 - 14 days
Did You Know?
The Opossum is North America's only marsupial, meaning females carry their young in a pouch.
When threatened, Opossums are famous for "playing 'possum," entering an involuntary comatose state to appear dead.
They have prehensile tails that can grip branches and even hold their body weight for short periods.
Opossums are highly resistant to snake venom, making them one of the few mammals that can prey on snakes.
They have more teeth than almost any other land mammal in North America, with 50 teeth.
Opossums are nocturnal and are often seen foraging for food at night.
Their diet is very diverse, including fruits, insects, small animals, and even carrion.
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