Species · GBIF taxon 2439920
Common Opossum
Didelphis marsupialisAlso known as Northern Black-eared Opossum, Manicou, Black-eared Opossum
Common opossums navigate the night canopy and forest floor with the help of a prehensile tail and opposable thumbs on their hind feet. Females carry their tiny, underdeveloped young in a well-formed pouch for several months before the growing offspring climb onto their mother's back. These highly adaptable marsupials thrive near human settlements, utilizing their keen sense of smell to forage for a highly varied diet.
NocturnalMarsupialAdaptable
- diet
- Omnivorous (fruits, insects, small vertebrates, carrion, and refuse)
- family
- Didelphidae
- threats
- Habitat fragmentation, vehicular collisions, domestic dogs, and hunting
- life Span
- 2 to 3 years in the wild
LC
May hiss and bare teeth or bite if cornered; observe from a safe distance.
Possesses fifty sharp teeth and strong jaws capable of delivering a painful bite if cornered or handled.
Never attempt to corner, touch, or capture a wild opossum; back away and allow it an escape route.- Secure trash bins: Keep outdoor garbage cans tightly sealed to prevent nocturnal foraging visits.
- Give them space: If encountered at night, shine a light nearby rather than directly in their eyes to let them retreat.
- Keep pets indoors: Restrain dogs at night to prevent harmful encounters for both animals.