Possums are adaptable marsupials, known for their ability to thrive in diverse environments and adapt to various conditions for shelter and sustenance. The term “possum” often refers to the Virginia Opossum, widespread across the Americas, but also encompasses a distinct group native to Australia and New Guinea. Understanding their habitats provides insight into their widespread presence and survival strategies.
Global Distribution
The Virginia Opossum (Didelphis virginiana) is the only marsupial species found north of Mexico, extending its range from southern Canada down to northern Costa Rica. Its distribution covers most of the United States east of the Rocky Mountains, with introduced populations now established along the Pacific coast from British Columbia to Baja California. The species is continually expanding its northern and western boundaries, partially attributed to its adaptability to varying climates and human-modified landscapes.
Separately, a diverse array of possum species inhabits Australia and New Guinea. The common brushtail possum is prevalent across eastern and northern Australia, Tasmania, and parts of Western Australia. Another Australian species, the common ringtail possum, is found along the eastern coast, Tasmania, and southwestern Australia. While both groups are marsupials, their geographical separation and evolutionary paths are distinct.
Preferred Habitats
Virginia Opossums demonstrate a broad habitat tolerance, thriving in a variety of environments. They prefer woodlands and thickets, particularly those near water sources like streams, marshes, and swamps. Their habitats also include deciduous forests, open woods, and agricultural lands. This species is increasingly found in urban and suburban areas, showcasing its ability to coexist with human populations.
The presence of water, readily available food sources, and adequate cover are consistent factors in their habitat selection. They can be found from lowlands up to elevations of 3,000 meters.
Den and Shelter Locations
Possums are opportunistic when it comes to finding or creating their dens, rarely constructing their own burrows. They utilize a variety of natural and human-made structures for shelter and resting during the day, as they are primarily nocturnal animals. Common den sites include hollow logs, tree cavities, and abandoned burrows dug by other animals like woodchucks or skunks.
They also frequently use rock piles, brush piles, and even old squirrel nests. In human-dominated landscapes, possums readily take refuge in sheds, barns, under decks, in attics, or within other abandoned buildings. These locations provide safety, warmth, and concealment from predators, making them suitable temporary homes. Possums often change their denning sites, only staying in one place for extended periods when raising young.
Life in Varied Environments
Possums possess several adaptations that enable them to flourish across diverse living environments, including those heavily influenced by humans. Their nocturnal habits allow them to forage and move under the cover of darkness, reducing encounters with diurnal predators and human activity. They are omnivorous, consuming a wide array of foods such as insects, fruits, plants, small animals, and carrion. This diet flexibility is particularly beneficial in urban settings where they might scavenge from human refuse.
A well-known defense mechanism is “playing dead,” where they enter a catatonic state, appearing lifeless to deter predators. Their prehensile tails and opposable thumbs on their hind feet aid in climbing and navigating arboreal environments, offering escape routes and access to elevated den sites. These combined traits contribute to their success and expanding presence, even in shared spaces with human populations.