OPOSSUM
Didelphis virginiana
DESCRIPTION
The Virginia opossum is the only marsupial found in North America. It is known for its ability to play dead as a defense mechanism against predators.
FUN FACTS
- Opossums have a prehensile tail that helps them balance in trees | They are immune to many snake venoms | Opossums can eat ticks, helping to control tick populations
QUICK INFO
Lifespan2-4 years in the wild, up to 8 years in captivity
Average Weight2.5-6 kg
Average Length40-100 cm
Diet TypeOmnivore
Social Structuresolitary, typically live alone except during mating season or when a mother is raising her young
Activity PatternNocturnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (February-May)
- Habitat
- Opossums are adaptable and can be found in various habitats, including forests, grasslands, and urban areas. They prefer areas with abundant food and shelter.
- Biomes
- Temperate Forest, Grassland, Urban
- Native Range
- The Virginia opossum is native to North America, ranging from southern Canada to northern Mexico.
- Continent
- North America
- Countries
- United States, Canada, Mexico
- Diet
- Opossums are opportunistic feeders and consume a wide variety of foods. Their diet includes fruits, insects, small animals, and carrion.
- Diet Type
- Omnivore
- Favorite Food
- fruits, insects, small animals
- Social Structure
- solitary, typically live alone except during mating season or when a mother is raising her young
- Activity Pattern
- Nocturnal
- Group Size
- 1
- Territorial
- 0
LC
2.5-6 kg
Weight
40-100 cm
Length
- Coloration
- grayish-white fur with a pointed snout and a hairless tail
- Sexual Dimorphism
- males are generally larger than females
- Lifespan
- 2-4 years in the wild, up to 8 years in captivity
- Gestation Period
- 12-13 days
- Offspring per Birth
- 6-9
- Sexual Maturity
- 6-12 months
- Breeding Season
- Spring (February-May)
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is generally stable, but local declines may occur due to habitat loss.
- Wild Population Estimate
- unknown
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction and vehicle collisions. They are also vulnerable to predation by larger animals.
- Predators
- coyotes, foxes, domestic dogs
- Defense Mechanisms
- Playing dead, hissing, and showing teeth when threatened.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon