Overview
North America’s only Marsupial north of Mexico, the Virginia Opossum is a newcomer to Canada.
However, conservation agencies here are not worried about this species due to the critical role this mammal plays in ecosystem health.
The Virginia Opossum has 50 sharp teeth that allow it to eat anything it can get its hands on. It is an omnivore that eats bugs, other mammals, birds, fish, amphibians, lizards and our garbage.
Did you know? The Mother is the primary caregiver for the young, although the male will also contribute to creating the den and hunting harder prey.
The young are always seen riding the mother and won’t be separated until adolescence.
This species is resistant to rabies but they can still catch it if their immune system is weakened enough.
One of the most well-known behaviours of Opossums is their “freezing” when approached by what they see as a danger.
If they feel frightened, they will also pretend to be dead until the danger passes.
Habitat
This species can be found all over the USA down to Costa Rica. Due to climate change, this species has begun to travel north.
However, this species is not equipped for Canadian winters so their tails and exposed hands will catch frostbite if exposed to the winter elements.
The Virginia Opossum has been known to kick out other animals from their burrows so they to find proper shelter from the cold.
This species is mainly found in forested areas- especially deciduous forest areas and during the summer will mostly be found climbing trees.
They also live close to human settlements due to their diet including our garbage.
Found On These ForestQuests
What to do if you see an Opossum?
An Opossum does not pose too much of a risk to you if you come across one.
However, just because it freezes or plays dead does not give you the go-ahead to pick it up or touch it.
These marsupials are professional actors and will bite if you try to approach them while in a threatened state.
A bite from an Opossum can lead to serious infection due to the type of bugs and other animals it likes to eat.
Sources:
https://www.toronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/8fdb-Biodiversity-MammalsBook-Division-Planning-And-Development-part2.pdf
https://www.mississauga.ca/services-and-programs/animals-and-pets/wildlife-in-mississauga/opossums/
https://www.cbc.ca/natureofthings/features/opossums-misunderstood-marsupials
https://www.tvo.org/article/creatures-vs-climate-the-virginia-opossum
https://nationalzoo.si.edu/animals/virginia-opossum
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