![]() ![]() It emits a foul substance from its anus, the smell described as corpse-like.Ī predator is confronted with what appears to be dead, unhealthy prey, and may leave the opossum alone. Its teeth are visible, as if in a death grimace. ![]() It does indeed appear if the opossum is dead. The opossum has no control over this it’s involuntary. It basically faints and is in a state of unconsciousness. But if it is surprised by a predator, it will enter a catatonic state. One of the most commonly known habits of opossums is “playing dead” or, as it is frequently called, “playing possum.” This is real, although the opossum is not playing, which suggests there is some intent at work.Īn opossum, when confronted with a threat, will often hiss or bare its teeth. Playing Possum Virginia opossum playing dead © Tony Alter/ Flickr.And, as always, leave your own opossum observations in the comments. But there’s no need to embellish the opossum: it is a fascinating, adaptable creature that has found a way to live alongside humanity.Įnjoy these opossum facts. But the Virginia opossum ( Didelphis virginiana) is the only marsupial found north of Mexico.Īs you might expect of such a peculiar-looking animal, the Virginia opossum is the subject of its fair share of folklore and myth. There are more than 110 species of opossums ranging across Central and South America (not to be confused with possums, an Australian order of mammals that aren’t closely related). It doesn’t look like anything else you see in field or forest.Īnd there is truth to this perception. But when you see one up close, you can’t help but be struck by just how utterly bizarre it is. It’s a familiar and common creature in many parts of North America. ![]() As it passes, you are struck by the thick, naked tail, the pointed snout, coarse fur and weirdly long fingers. You’re walking through the woods at dawn when you see a cat-sized creature shuffling along. ![]()
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