Myth: Opossums rest hanging upside down by their tail.

Fact: Although opossums don't hang upside down by their tail, they will use it as a brace or extra limb when climbing.

Prevention

Opossums are non-aggressive and non-destructive. However, they are wild animals and should not be handled or encouraged. To avoid an opossum invasion:

  • Do not leave pet food out at night
  • Pick up fallen fruit from trees
  • Clear away bushes, woodpiles and other hiding places
  • Store garbage in tightly lidded containers
Problems with Opossums? Contact 360 Wildlife today!

Opossums

OpossumAll About Opossums

Opossums are usually about the size of a small cat with a grayish brown coat and a white face. They have long, hairless tails, ears and noses. Although they can defend themselves using their 50 teeth, they are basically harmless, causing little damage and posing little threat to humans.

What they Eat

Opossums have a flexible diet which makes them successful survivors in diverse locations. They eat carrion, insects, frogs, birds, snakes, garbage, compost and pet food.

Where they Live

Opossums can’t dig and will not put much effort into building their own home or burrow. They are more likely to cause damage by taking up residence under houses, in pipes, attics, and crevices.

Life with Humans

Opossums can breed quickly and give birth to a very large number of young (up to 13). When threatened, they will ‘play possum” mimicking the appearance/smell of a dead animal. Their stiff, curled form can be prodded, turned over or carried away. The animal will regain consciousness after a period of minutes or hours and then escape.

Fast Fact

Opossums are marsupials that carry their young in a pouch. In fact, they’re the only marsupials native to North America!