The opossum is a common marsupial known for its nocturnal habits. Many people become concerned when they observe an opossum during daylight hours, assuming it indicates illness or distress. However, while these animals are typically active at night, a daytime sighting does not automatically signal a problem.
Opossum’s Natural Rhythms
Opossums are primarily nocturnal, with their activity peaking during the night. They spend daytime hours sleeping in secluded spots like hollow logs, brush piles, or abandoned burrows. This behavior helps them avoid daytime predators, such as birds of prey, and compete for food during cooler nighttime temperatures. Their eyes are well-adapted for low-light conditions, enhancing their ability to forage and navigate after sunset.
Why Opossums Are Seen in Daylight
Seeing an opossum during the day is not uncommon and often indicates normal, healthy activity. They may be searching for food or water, especially if resources were scarce overnight or during colder months. A mother opossum with a large litter of young may also forage during the day to meet increased nutritional demands. Their daytime resting spots can also be disturbed, prompting them to seek a new, safer den site even in daylight.
Young opossums, particularly juveniles, might appear during the day as they begin to disperse and explore their surroundings. Mild weather conditions, such as overcast or cooler days, can also encourage daytime activity. Increased population density or competition for resources might lead opossums to expand their foraging times to find enough sustenance. In many of these cases, the animal is healthy and simply adapting to its environment.
When to Be Concerned
While many daytime sightings are normal, certain signs indicate an opossum might be in distress or ill. Lethargy, unresponsiveness, or a lack of reaction to its surroundings can be a cause for concern. An opossum moving in circles, bumping into objects, or appearing disoriented suggests neurological issues. Visible injuries, such as limping, open wounds, or difficulty moving, also warrant attention.
Other concerning behaviors include excessive drooling or foaming at the mouth, though this can sometimes be mistaken for their “playing possum” defense mechanism. Unprovoked aggression, unusual vocalizations, or difficulty breathing are also serious indicators. While any mammal can contract rabies, opossums rarely carry the virus due to their naturally low body temperature, making it difficult for the virus to thrive. A daytime sighting alone is typically not a sign of rabies.
Responding to a Daytime Sighting
If an opossum appears healthy and is simply active during the day, it is best to leave it undisturbed. The animal will likely move on once it has found food or a new resting place. Observing from a distance helps ensure your safety and the animal’s comfort. Keeping pets away from the opossum is also advisable to prevent conflict or stress for the wildlife.
If the opossum exhibits signs of distress or illness, avoid approaching or handling it directly. Contact local animal control, a wildlife rehabilitator, or a humane society. These professionals have the expertise and equipment to safely assess and assist the animal. To prevent future visits, securing outdoor garbage cans and other food sources can deter opossums from your property.