The North American opossum (Didelphis virginiana) is a unique marsupial found across a wide range, from southern Canada to Central America. These adaptable creatures, roughly the size of a domestic cat, are often encountered in human-inhabited areas, including suburban and urban environments. As the only marsupial native to North America, opossums are distinguished by their prehensile tail and a female’s pouch where undeveloped young complete their growth.
Understanding Possum Behavior
Opossums are shy, nocturnal animals that prefer to avoid confrontation. They typically forage for food at night, using their keen sense of smell to locate a varied diet. When faced with a perceived threat, their primary response is to retreat or hide, seeking shelter in brush piles, hollow trees, or abandoned dens.
These animals are generally non-aggressive. Their default behavior is to escape from danger rather than engage, making them unlikely to initiate conflict with humans or other animals. This avoidance strategy underscores their natural inclination to stay out of sight and minimize direct interaction.
Their Primary Defense Mechanism
When escape is not possible, opossums employ an involuntary defense mechanism known as “playing possum.” This response, scientifically called tonic immobility, is a stress-induced catatonic state where the animal appears unresponsive and lifeless. During this state, the opossum may lie limp, keep its eyes and mouth open, and even drool, with very slow and shallow breathing.
This feigned death can be accompanied by the release of a foul-smelling fluid from their anal glands, further enhancing the illusion to deter predators that prefer live prey. This behavior is a profound fear response, not a conscious act, and can last for several minutes or even hours until the perceived threat has passed.
When Possums Seem Unafraid
While opossums are typically shy, they may appear less fearful around humans due to underlying circumstances. Habituation is a common factor; opossums can become accustomed to human presence, especially when consistent food sources like pet food, fallen fruit, or unsecured trash are available. Their opportunistic omnivorous diet means they readily seek easily accessible sustenance.
An opossum that seems unafraid could also be injured or ill, making it less capable of retreating from threats. Such animals might move slowly or appear disoriented. In these cases, their apparent boldness is not genuine confidence but a result of incapacitation or desperation for survival.
What to Do During an Encounter
If you encounter an opossum, maintain a safe distance and avoid approaching or handling the animal. Opossums are generally harmless and prefer to be left alone, rarely posing a threat. While they can hiss or bare their teeth when frightened, this is typically a defensive display rather than an aggressive one.
Securing potential food sources is an effective way to prevent attracting opossums to your property. Keeping pet food indoors, ensuring trash cans are tightly sealed, and cleaning up fallen fruit can discourage their presence. If you observe an opossum that appears injured, sick, or trapped, contact your local animal control or a wildlife rehabilitation center for assistance, as they are equipped to handle such situations safely.