Possums are often encountered in residential areas, frequently spark questions regarding their potential danger to humans. While their appearance can be startling, understanding their typical behaviors and any associated risks helps in assessing the actual threat they pose. This information provides clarity on how to coexist safely with these nocturnal animals.
Understanding the Direct Threat
Possums are generally docile and non-aggressive, preferring to avoid confrontation with humans. They are more inclined to escape or retreat than to engage in an attack when threatened. If cornered or feeling extremely endangered, a possum may hiss, growl, or display its numerous sharp teeth as a defensive bluff. This display is typically a warning and not an immediate precursor to a physical assault.
The well-known “playing possum” behavior, or thanatosis, is an involuntary physiological response to extreme fear. During this state, the animal becomes limp, its breathing may become shallow, and it might drool or emit a foul-smelling substance to appear dead and deter predators. While possums possess sharp claws and 50 teeth, actual bites or scratches on humans are rare and usually only occur if the animal is handled, provoked, or feels it has no other escape. Serious injury or a fatal attack from a possum is highly unlikely.
Beyond Physical Harm: Health Considerations
Beyond direct physical harm, there are considerations regarding diseases that possums can carry. Unlike some other wild mammals, possums are notably resistant to rabies due to their lower body temperature, which is typically below 95 degrees Fahrenheit (35 degrees Celsius). Cases of rabies in possums are extremely rare, making transmission to humans from these animals very uncommon.
Possums can, however, carry other pathogens. Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection, can be transmitted through contact with infected urine or contaminated water and soil, causing flu-like symptoms and potentially leading to kidney or liver issues in severe cases. Salmonella, often associated with food poisoning, can be spread through contact with possum feces. Toxoplasmosis, a parasitic infection, is also carried in their feces and poses a greater risk to pregnant women and individuals with compromised immune systems. Possums can also host fleas and ticks, which can act as vectors for diseases like Lyme disease or Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
Safe Encounters with Possums
When encountering a possum, maintaining a safe distance is advisable. These animals are wild and should not be approached, fed, or handled, as provocation can lead to defensive behaviors. Securing potential food sources around your home, such as tightly sealing garbage cans and bringing pet food indoors at night, can deter possums from visiting your property.
Ensuring that household pets are vaccinated can help protect them from various wildlife-borne diseases. If a possum appears injured, sick, or exhibits unusual behavior, it is important to contact local animal control or a wildlife rehabilitator rather than attempting to intervene directly. Blocking access to sheltered areas under decks, sheds, or attics can prevent possums from establishing dens near human dwellings.