Learn more about the opossum
By Dorothée Pâris Pasturel • 10 December 2024
Due to climate change, we are seeing it more and more in our regions of Quebec and on our lands. The Virginia opossum ( Didelphis virginiana ) is the only marsupial in Canada. It belongs to one of the three families of marsupials native to the Americas.
Description
The Virginia opossum is about the size of a domestic cat. Its fur is grayish and rough, except for its face, which is whitish; the muzzle is long and pointed, the ears are round and bare, and the eyes are bulging. Its tail is similar to that of a rat and is prehensile, meaning that it can grasp objects and serve as a “fifth limb” in climbing.
Reproduction
Normally, the female has one or two litters per year, but she can have three if the climate is suitable. All marsupial young are born in a larval state after a short gestation period, which lasts 11 to 13 days in the Virginia opossum. At birth, the young are about the size of a dime, are hairless and blind. After about two months, the young emerge from the pouch for short periods, where the mother carries them on her back. After the third month, they are fully weaned and independent.
Food and shelter
Studies show that the opossum’s diet and habitat are very similar to those of the raccoon . Both species are omnivorous and opportunistic, feeding on a variety of plant and animal matter. They have also become accustomed to scavenging in human garbage. Conflicts between them appear to be limited, apparently due to differences in food preferences and foraging times. The opossum feeds on creatures commonly found in backyards: beetles , spiders, crickets, snails, and slugs.
Interesting facts
- It plays dead when predators approach it. It can even simulate the smell of rotting food and reduce its heart rate for up to 6 hours!
- It is peaceful in nature and does not tend to attack. However, it is not recommended to approach it, because with 50 small sharp teeth, it might want to bite you if it feels threatened.
- It has a varied diet and is often found on the lands of people feeding other animals.
- It travels a lot and doesn’t stay in one place for long, so it won’t ravage a crop like other animals do.
- Although it carries a number of parasites itself, it is rare for the Virginia opossum to carry the rabies virus.
What to do to keep the opossum away
- Leave a light bulb on,
- Play the radio,
- Use trash cans with tight lids,
- Keep dog or cat food inside,
- Close off areas where he can hide.
We ask for kindness towards this animal . Whether it scares you or you find it too cute, we ask that you leave it alone. It is not threatening and is welcome to eat ticks on our land!
Warning: If you find an injured or dead opossum, do not approach it. You must report it to SOS Poaching at the toll-free number 1 800 463-2191 or by email at centralesos@mffp.gouv.qc.ca .
Sources:
Others articles
The different types of pet rodents
Rodents are popular pets for many reasons: they’re cute, easy to care for, and often suited to small living spaces. However, it can be difficult…
Leave a Reply