In many states it is illegal to keep an opossum as a pet, and can result in a hefty fine. The opossum is a wild animal, and should not be kept as a pet. Opossums have not been domesticated in any way. Opossums rarely cause injuries to humans, preferring to run and hide, or simply play dead. They are frequently struck by cars searching for carrion and garbage on roadsides, and can be killed by domestic dogs. Though they will occasionally make their homes in our attics and crawl spaces, and feed from our garbage cans, opossums are only doing what they need to do to survive. The poor opossum is generally viewed as an ugly pest of an animal. They eat carrion, small animals, insects, reptiles, eggs, plants, and garbage.
Opossums are opportunistic feeders, which means that they feed on a wide variety of items to survive. Other opossum species can be found from Mexico to the tip of South America. The Virginia opossum can be found from Central America all the way to Canada. There are over 100 species of opossum, but only one species lives north of Mexico, the Virginia opossum. They have become quite adept at surviving in urban areas. They are also commonly found close to a water source, such as a stream or lake. Opossums prefer woody habitats, particularly deciduous forests that seasonally shed their leaves. These super powered predators will hunt and eat venomous snakes if given the opportunity! The only snake they are not immune to is the coral snake. Venom Resistant – As if their resistance to rabies wasn’t enough, opossums are also immune to some venomous snake bites.Because scavengers have advanced immune systems, they can feed on the carrion without catching the otherwise potentially deadly diseases. By feeding on carrion, scavengers prevent the spread of disease. Decaying carcasses can easily spread some pretty vile diseases, particularly ones that can make humans sick. Nature’s Garbage Men – Just like vultures, opossums feed on carrion, which is dead animals.Many opossums have been accidentally killed by well-meaning humans burying a “dead” opossum in their yard, or running over a “dead” opossum on the side of the road. Playin’ Possum – Did you find a “dead” opossum in your yard? Maybe you saw one curled up on the side of the road? Don’t pick up the shovel! Opossums are incredibly impressive at playing dead, to the point where they can be picked up and carried away.These traits make it difficult for the opossum to develop rabies. Rabies and Opossums – While it is possible for an opossum to carry the rabies virus, it is extremely Opossums have an extremely competent immune system, and a low body temperature.Let’s learn a little more about them and find out why. These scary-looking creatures are unfortunately misunderstood. They have a number of distinguishing characteristics that are typically unknown to the general population. Opossums, the only naturally occurring marsupial in North America, are incredibly interesting creatures.