Possums are adaptable marsupials recognized for their opportunistic feeding habits, allowing them to thrive across diverse environments, from woodlands to urban areas. These nocturnal creatures play a part in various ecosystems due to their varied diet.
Key Insect Prey
Possums consume a variety of insects, which form a significant portion of their diet. Common insect prey includes beetles, crickets, grasshoppers, and cockroaches. These animals also actively forage for other invertebrates such as earthworms, slugs, and snails. Possums utilize their keen sense of smell to locate these small food sources, often digging in leaf litter or beneath rocks. Their foraging behavior, which primarily occurs at night, makes them effective at finding and consuming these creatures.
While often cited as significant tick predators, recent research indicates that ticks are not a preferred dietary item for possums. Despite this, possums are meticulous groomers and may inadvertently consume some ticks that land on them.
Beyond Insects: A Varied Diet
Possums are omnivores, meaning their diet is not limited to insects but encompasses a wide array of plant and animal matter. This dietary flexibility enables them to adapt to available food sources across different seasons and habitats. Beyond insects, they consume fruits, berries, nuts, and seeds, often favoring ripe or fallen produce. Vegetables, grains, and leaves also contribute to their plant-based intake.
Their diet extends to small vertebrates like mice, rats, frogs, birds, and even snakes. Possums also readily consume eggs when accessible. Carrion, or dead animals, is another important food source, especially in winter when other options might be scarce. In urban settings, they may scavenge human food scraps, pet food, and garbage, demonstrating their adaptability to human-altered landscapes.
Possums as Natural Pest Controllers
Due to their diverse diet, possums contribute to natural pest management within various ecosystems. Their consumption of insects, including common garden pests like slugs, snails, and beetles, can help regulate these populations. They also prey on rodents such as mice and rats, which can otherwise be a nuisance. This foraging behavior helps to control the numbers of various creatures that might impact gardens or human dwellings.
Possums also act as part of nature’s cleanup crew by consuming carrion, which aids in reducing decaying organic matter in the environment. Their presence can therefore contribute to a healthier local ecosystem. While they are opportunistic feeders, their dietary preferences often align with reducing populations of common pests, making them a beneficial part of local wildlife.