Possums, particularly the Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana), frequently utilize trees. This widespread marsupial, common across North America, is often observed navigating arboreal environments. While the term “possum” can refer to various species globally, in North America, it commonly denotes this adaptable animal. Their presence in trees is a notable aspect of their behavior, reflecting their versatile approach to survival in diverse habitats.
Why Trees Are Essential Habitats
Trees offer opossums multiple advantages. They provide safety from ground predators like coyotes, dogs, foxes, and bobcats. While arboreal predators such as large hawks, eagles, and great horned owls also pose a threat, trees still offer cover. Opossums can retreat into the higher branches for refuge when threatened, keeping them out of reach of many dangers.
Beyond protection, trees are a source of sustenance. Opossums forage for fruits, nuts, insects, and bird eggs within the canopy. Trees also provide essential shelter for resting during the day or raising young. Opossums are opportunistic in their den choices, often using hollow logs, tree cavities, abandoned nests, or other pre-existing sheltered spots for their temporary homes.
Arboreal Adaptations
Opossums possess physical characteristics that enable effective tree-climbing. Their prehensile tail is a notable adaptation, acting as a brace and providing balance as they move through branches. While commonly depicted hanging by their tails, adult opossums typically do not suspend themselves for long periods as their tails are not strong enough to support their full body weight. Young opossums may briefly use their tails to dangle. The tail can also be used to carry nesting materials like leaves and twigs back to their dens.
Their sharp claws provide grip on tree bark, fences, and other surfaces, aiding vertical movement. Opossums also have opposable thumbs on their hind feet, known as a hallux. This clawless digit functions like a human thumb, allowing them to grasp branches securely. Flexible joints and agile bodies contribute to their climbing dexterity, enabling navigation of complex arboreal environments.
Beyond the Branches: Ground Foraging
Despite their climbing prowess, opossums are not exclusively arboreal; they spend substantial time foraging on the ground. They are omnivores with an opportunistic diet, consuming a wide variety of food sources. This includes carrion, fallen fruits, insects, small rodents, eggs, amphibians, reptiles, slugs, snails, and earthworms. They also scavenge human-related food items like garbage and pet food.
Opossums are primarily nocturnal, foraging mostly at night. During colder months or when food is scarce, they may search for sustenance during daylight hours. While skilled climbers, they do not construct their own dens, instead seeking shelter in abandoned burrows, hollow trees, rock crevices, or other dry, sheltered ground spots. Their time on the ground is an integral part of their adaptable survival strategy.