How big can a possum get?
Opossums grow up to 40 inches in length, about the size of a house cat. Their bodies are covered in white or grayish hair. Opossums have a long, pointed face with round, hairless ears and a rat-like tail.
What person is possum?
The word possum is an informal, regional variation on opossum that’s only used in North America. It’s especially common in the phrase “playing possum,” which refers to the possum’s involuntary reaction to fear or harm, falling into a death-like faint, and also to a person who pretends to be innocent.
Is an opossum the same as a possum?
Both possum and opossum correctly refer to the Virginia opossum frequently seen in North America. In common use, possum is the usual term; in technical or scientific contexts opossum is preferred. Opossum can be pronounced with its first syllable either voiced or silent . So cute.
Why are possums the only marsupial in North America?
Summary: Scientists have traced the evolution of the modern opossum back to the extinction of the dinosaurs and found evidence to support North America as the center of origin for all living marsupials.
Where do possums sleep?
Possums sleep in nests in hollow trees or dens inside caves, attics, and abandoned buildings on the ground. They don’t like the light, so they usually find places that are well covered during the day to sleep. Typically, any place well-covered, safe from predators, and free will be perfect for a possum to sleep in.
Do possums eat cats?
No, possums do not eat cats. They may occasionally attack a cat if they feel their young are threatened, if they are cornered (though they are more likely to play dead in these situations) or if they are competing for food.
How old do opossums live?
Virginia opossum: 4 years
Common opossum: 2 years
Opossum/Lifespan
Do possums bite humans?
Although an opossum has a relatively fearsome face and bear some resemblance to rats with their long tails, they are not generally dangerous. They also rarely carry rabies, which is a concern especially for pet owners. Although they will bite and defend themselves, they are not considered much of a threat.
How did marsupials get to Australia?
Their presence in Australia and nearby islands is thought to have occurred from a single migration event in which a group of ancestral marsupials colonized Australia by using land connections with South America via Antarctica.
How smart are possums?
Opossums Are Smart Critters For one, they have a remarkable ability to find food and to remember where it is. When tested, opossums outscored rats, rabbits, cats, and dogs — but not humans. 2 They also can find their way through a maze more efficiently than rats and cats.
Can possums be pets?
Generally, it is not recommended that possums be kept as household pets. Since they are wild animals, there are many things that even a loving pet owner might not be able to provide.