Opossums are common nocturnal marsupials found across North America. Direct physical harm from them is uncommon. Concerns typically arise from their potential for disease transmission rather than aggressive attacks.
How Possums Behave
Opossums are not inherently aggressive and prefer to avoid confrontation. When threatened, their first instinct is to retreat or escape. If escape is not possible, they may exhibit defensive behaviors like hissing, growling, and baring teeth to appear intimidating. This display is primarily a bluff to deter predators.
A well-known defense mechanism is “playing possum,” an involuntary physiological response to extreme fear or stress. During this state, the opossum becomes motionless, may open its mouth, and release a foul-smelling fluid, convincing predators it is unwell or deceased. Bites or scratches are rare and typically occur when the animal feels cornered, is protecting its young, or is handled by humans.
Health Concerns from Possums
Opossums can carry pathogens posing health risks to humans and pets. They can carry leptospirosis, a bacterial infection spread through contact with infected urine or contaminated water and soil. They can also transmit tularemia, a bacterial disease spread through direct contact with an infected animal or via bites from infected ticks or fleas. Salmonella bacteria can also be carried, primarily spread through their feces.
While any mammal can contract rabies, it is extremely rare for opossums to carry the virus. Their lower body temperature (94-97°F / 34.4-36.1°C) inhibits the rabies virus from thriving. Opossums can host external parasites like fleas, ticks, and mites. These can transmit illnesses, such as Lyme disease, to humans or pets.
Preventing Negative Encounters
Avoid approaching, feeding, or handling wild opossums. Securing potential food sources around the home deters them. This includes keeping pet food indoors, ensuring trash cans have tight-fitting lids, and regularly picking up fallen fruit from yards.
Preventing opossums from seeking shelter involves sealing entry points to homes, sheds, and attics. If present in an undesirable location, making noise or spraying water can encourage them to leave without direct confrontation. If an opossum appears sick, injured, exhibits unusual aggression, or is trapped, contact local animal control or a wildlife rescue professional. Should a bite or scratch occur, thoroughly clean the wound and seek medical advice.