The term “takuache” is often used in Mexican-American slang to refer to a young man who customizes pickup trucks, but its origin is derived from “tlacuache,” the Spanish word for opossum. Many people encounter these nocturnal animals and wonder about their nature, particularly if they pose a threat. This article clarifies what opossums are and addresses common concerns regarding their safety and interaction with humans.
Understanding the Takuache (Opossum)
The opossum, specifically the Virginia opossum, is the only marsupial native to North America. These cat-sized mammals typically measure between 13 to 22 inches long and weigh between 4 to 12 pounds. They have a distinctive appearance with grayish-white fur, a pointed snout, hairless ears, and a long, scaly, prehensile tail.
Opossums are highly adaptable creatures found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, farmlands, and suburban areas, especially near water sources. They are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night, foraging for food using their keen sense of smell. As omnivores, their diet is diverse, including insects, small rodents, eggs, fruits, grains, and carrion.
Are Opossums Dangerous?
Opossums are generally not dangerous to humans or pets. They are non-aggressive animals that prefer to avoid confrontation, retreating when threatened. A common defense mechanism is “playing possum,” where they feign death, entering an involuntary catatonic state that can last from minutes to several hours. During this state, they may lie motionless, bare their teeth, hiss, drool, and secrete a foul-smelling fluid to deter predators.
While opossums possess sharp teeth, bites are rare and occur only if the animal is cornered, handled, or severely provoked. They are more likely to hiss, growl, or snap their jaws as a warning rather than attack. Concerns about disease transmission, particularly rabies, are often overstated. Opossums have a lower body temperature, which makes it difficult for the rabies virus to survive and replicate in their system, making rabies extremely rare in these animals.
Opossums can carry other diseases and parasites, such as Leptospirosis, Salmonella, Coccidiosis, and Toxoplasmosis, which can be transmitted through their waste or external parasites. However, actual transmission to humans or pets is relatively rare with proper precautions. They are also known to consume large numbers of ticks, potentially reducing tick-borne diseases in an area.
Coexisting Safely with Opossums
To safely coexist with opossums, minimize attractants around your home. Secure food sources by bringing pet food indoors at night and ensuring garbage cans have tight-fitting or locking lids. Regularly pick up fallen fruit from your yard.
Blocking potential den sites can prevent opossums from taking up residence. This involves sealing openings under decks, sheds, and other structures, and removing brush piles or debris. If an opossum is encountered, leave it alone and observe it from a distance. Avoid approaching, cornering, or attempting to handle the animal, as this can provoke a defensive reaction.
For humane deterrence, some scents like ammonia, garlic, or spicy peppers may be used, as opossums have a keen sense of smell. Motion-activated lights or sprinklers can also deter them. These measures help encourage opossums to move on naturally without harm, promoting a safe environment for both humans and wildlife.