The Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana) is the only marsupial native to North America. These adaptable creatures often inhabit areas alongside humans, making nocturnal sightings and sounds a common occurrence for many. Primarily active after dusk, opossums navigate their environment under the cover of night, foraging for food and engaging in various vocal behaviors. Understanding these nighttime sounds offers insight into the lives of these unique animals.
Why Possums Scream at Night
Opossums emit loud, startling screams when they feel threatened or are in distress. This vocalization serves as a defense mechanism, a high-pitched, piercing sound intended to startle and deter potential predators such as dogs, coyotes, or owls. The scream can be accompanied by hissing or growling, creating an intimidating display designed to make the opossum appear more formidable. These vocal warnings are a sign of stress or fear, rather than aggression towards humans.
During breeding season, male opossums use distinct clicking noises to attract females. While loud vocalizations occur, high-pitched screams are associated with fighting or territorial disputes between opossums, not mating rituals. If an opossum is injured, trapped, or in extreme pain, it may also let out a loud scream. These sounds indicate a state of vulnerability or intense agitation.
Distinguishing Possum Sounds
Identifying a possum’s scream involves recognizing its distinct characteristics, often described as a high-pitched, guttural shriek or screech. This alarming vocalization may be combined with hissing, growling, or clicking noises, especially when the animal feels cornered or threatened. The sound is designed to be jarring and can be startling to an unfamiliar listener.
Other nocturnal animals also produce loud sounds that can be confused with a possum’s scream. Raccoons make various noises, while foxes are recognized for their scream-like calls. Domestic cats may also produce yowling or growling sounds at night that could be mistaken for wildlife. However, the specific combination of a piercing screech with hisses and guttural growls indicates an opossum in distress.
What to Do When You Hear a Screaming Possum
When you hear a screaming opossum, observe the situation from a safe distance without approaching the animal. Opossums are not aggressive towards humans and vocalize out of fear or distress, not a desire for confrontation. Approaching a frightened or injured animal can escalate its stress and potentially lead to a defensive reaction.
To prevent encounters and discourage opossums from lingering, secure outdoor trash cans with tight-fitting lids and avoid leaving pet food outside overnight. These measures remove common food attractants that draw nocturnal animals into residential areas. Additionally, keeping pets indoors or on a leash at night can prevent direct interactions between your pets and wildlife. If an opossum appears injured, trapped, or is causing a persistent nuisance, contact local animal control or a wildlife rehabilitator for assistance. These professionals are equipped to handle wildlife situations safely and humanely.