Opossums are found throughout Florida, making them a common sight across the state. They are well-adapted to Florida’s diverse landscapes. This article explores the specific type of opossum residing in Florida, their characteristics, habitats, diet, and how humans can coexist peacefully with these unique animals.
The Virginia Opossum in Florida
The Virginia Opossum (Didelphis virginiana) is the specific species found in Florida. It is North America’s only native marsupial, a mammal known for carrying its young in an external pouch. Virginia Opossums vary in size, generally comparable to a domestic cat, with males typically larger. Their bodies measure between 13 and 22 inches long, with tails adding another 9.8 to 21.3 inches.
Virginia Opossums are recognizable by their grayish-white fur, often appearing dull, and a white, pointed face. They have long, hairless, scaly prehensile tails that assist in climbing and grasping branches. Their ears are bare, and they have a long, flat nose. A unique feature is opposable, clawless thumbs on their hind feet, aiding climbing. They also have 50 teeth, more than any other North American land mammal.
Habitat and Diet
Opossums are adaptable animals, thriving in diverse Florida habitats. They are commonly found in deciduous woodlands, near streams and rivers, and also inhabit urban areas, agricultural lands, and wetlands. They do not dig their own burrows, instead seeking shelter in natural spaces like hollow logs, rock piles, or abandoned burrows. They may also utilize human structures such as woodpiles, barns, and attics.
Opossums are primarily nocturnal, active at night as they forage for food. Their diet is omnivorous and opportunistic, allowing them to consume a diverse range of items. This includes fruits, nuts, seeds, insects, worms, and small animals like eggs, frogs, snakes, and small mammals. They also consume carrion (dead animals) and human food waste, acting as natural scavengers.
Coexisting with Opossums
Opossums exhibit a well-known defense mechanism called “playing possum.” This involuntary, comatose-like state is triggered by extreme fear, not conscious deception. During this response, the opossum’s body goes limp, heart rate and breathing slow, and it may appear to be drooling or emitting a foul odor. This leads predators to believe it is dead and unappetizing. The state can last minutes to several hours, after which the opossum recovers and moves away once danger passes.
Encounters with opossums often occur in residential areas, particularly near trash cans or pet food dishes. To encourage peaceful coexistence, secure garbage bins with tight-fitting lids and avoid leaving pet food outdoors, especially overnight. Opossums are non-aggressive and retreat when confronted, making conflict with humans or pets rare. Sealing potential entry points to homes, such as crawl spaces or attics, prevents them from seeking shelter indoors. Opossums can also be beneficial, consuming ticks and other pests, contributing to a healthier environment.