Are Possums Good: Understanding the Benefits of Opossums

Opossums offer several ecological advantages, making them beneficial creatures to have around and WHY.EDU.VN explains why. From pest control to waste management, their presence can significantly contribute to a healthier environment. Explore the ecological niche, wildlife interactions, and ecosystem services these marsupials provide.

1. What Makes Possums Good for the Environment and Ecosystem?

Possums are good for the environment because they play a crucial role in controlling pests, cleaning up carrion, and reducing the spread of diseases. Their omnivorous diet and scavenging habits contribute significantly to ecosystem health.

Possums, often misunderstood, offer remarkable benefits to our environment and the ecosystems they inhabit. Their presence contributes to a healthier, more balanced natural world. Let’s delve into the specific reasons why possums are considered beneficial:

• Pest Control:
  • Possums are voracious eaters of insects, including garden pests like beetles, slugs, snails, and cockroaches. This natural pest control helps to keep gardens and ecosystems healthy without the need for harmful pesticides.
  • According to a study by the University of California, Davis, a single opossum can consume thousands of insects in a week, significantly reducing pest populations.
• Tick Reduction:
  • One of the most significant benefits of possums is their ability to control tick populations. As meticulous groomers, they consume a large number of ticks that attach to their bodies.
  • Research from the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies estimates that a single opossum can kill thousands of ticks each year, helping to reduce the incidence of Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses.
• Carrion Cleanup:
  • Possums are scavengers, meaning they feed on dead animals (carrion). This helps to clean up the environment, preventing the spread of disease and reducing unpleasant odors.
  • By consuming carrion, possums also help to recycle nutrients back into the soil, supporting plant growth and overall ecosystem health.
• Disease Resistance:
  • Possums have a natural resistance to rabies, making them less likely to transmit this deadly disease to humans or pets.
  • They are also immune to the toxins in bee and scorpion stings, allowing them to thrive in environments where these hazards are present.
• Seed Dispersal:
  • As omnivores, possums eat a variety of fruits and seeds. They help to disperse these seeds throughout their habitat, promoting plant growth and biodiversity.
  • This seed dispersal is particularly important for native plant species, helping to maintain healthy and diverse ecosystems.
• Predation of Rodents and Snakes:
  • Possums prey on rodents such as mice and rats, helping to control their populations and reduce the damage they can cause to crops and property.
  • They also eat snakes, including venomous species, which helps to protect humans and pets from snake bites.

Alt text: Opossum effectively eating pests in a lush garden, showcasing their role in natural pest control.

1.1. How Do Opossums Contribute to Pest Control?

Opossums’ omnivorous diet includes a wide range of insects and pests that can harm gardens and crops. Their appetite for these creatures helps maintain ecological balance.

Opossums are natural exterminators, preying on a variety of insects and pests that can wreak havoc on gardens and ecosystems. Here’s a detailed look at how they contribute to pest control:

• Consumption of Garden Pests:
  • Possums eat common garden pests like beetles, slugs, snails, and cockroaches. These pests can damage plants, destroy crops, and create unsightly conditions in gardens.
  • By consuming these pests, possums help to protect plants and maintain the aesthetic appeal of gardens.
• Reduction of Insect Populations:
  • Possums can consume a large number of insects in a single night, significantly reducing local insect populations.
  • This is particularly important in areas where insect infestations can cause widespread damage to crops and natural habitats.
• Natural Alternative to Pesticides:
  • Possums provide a natural alternative to chemical pesticides, which can have harmful effects on the environment and human health.
  • By relying on possums for pest control, gardeners and landowners can reduce their reliance on synthetic chemicals and promote a more sustainable approach to pest management.
• Targeting of Specific Pests:
  • Possums are particularly effective at targeting certain types of pests, such as ticks and cockroaches, which are known to transmit diseases.
  • This targeted approach to pest control can help to reduce the risk of disease transmission and improve public health outcomes.
• Supporting Biodiversity:
  • By controlling pest populations, possums help to support biodiversity in ecosystems.
  • When pest populations are kept in check, native plants and animals are better able to thrive, leading to a more balanced and resilient ecosystem.
• Nocturnal Pest Control:
  • As nocturnal animals, possums are active at night when many pests are most active.
  • This allows them to effectively control pest populations during the times when they are most likely to cause damage.

Alt text: Opossum showcased preying on insects in a garden, underlining their effective nocturnal pest control.

1.2. How Do Opossums Help Reduce Tick Populations and Lyme Disease?

Possums are meticulous groomers, consuming thousands of ticks each year. This behavior significantly reduces tick populations and, consequently, the risk of Lyme disease.

Opossums play a critical role in reducing tick populations and mitigating the spread of Lyme disease. Here’s how they accomplish this:

• Meticulous Grooming Habits:
  • Possums are known for their meticulous grooming habits. They spend a significant amount of time cleaning and grooming themselves, which involves removing ticks and other parasites from their fur.
  • This behavior is highly effective in reducing the number of ticks that survive on their bodies.
• High Tick Consumption:
  • Studies have shown that opossums consume a large number of ticks. Research from the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies indicates that a single opossum can kill thousands of ticks each year.
  • This high rate of tick consumption makes them one of the most effective natural tick control agents in many ecosystems.
• Reduction of Lyme Disease Risk:
  • By reducing tick populations, possums help to lower the risk of Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses.
  • Lyme disease is a serious and debilitating condition that can cause a range of symptoms, including fatigue, joint pain, and neurological problems.
• Natural Tick Control:
  • Possums provide a natural and sustainable approach to tick control, without the need for chemical treatments or other interventions.
  • This is particularly important in areas where pesticide use is restricted or where concerns exist about the environmental impacts of chemical tick control methods.
• Impact on Tick Life Cycle:
  • Possums not only consume adult ticks but also help to disrupt the tick life cycle by removing larval and nymphal ticks from the environment.
  • This can help to prevent tick populations from rebounding and reduce the overall risk of tick-borne diseases.
• Comparison to Other Animals:
  • Compared to other animals, opossums are exceptionally efficient at controlling tick populations.
  • While many animals may host ticks, opossums are unique in their ability to consume and eliminate large numbers of these parasites.

1.3. What Role Do Possums Play in Cleaning Up Carrion and Preventing Disease Spread?

As scavengers, possums consume dead animals, helping to prevent the spread of diseases and recycle nutrients back into the environment.

Possums are nature’s cleanup crew, playing a vital role in scavenging carrion and preventing the spread of diseases. Here’s how they contribute:

• Consumption of Dead Animals:
  • Possums are opportunistic scavengers, meaning they feed on dead animals (carrion) that they find in their environment.
  • This helps to remove decaying organic matter from the landscape, preventing the buildup of unpleasant odors and reducing the risk of disease transmission.
• Disease Prevention:
  • By consuming carrion, possums help to prevent the spread of diseases that can be transmitted through contaminated carcasses.
  • Dead animals can harbor bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can pose a threat to human and animal health.
• Nutrient Recycling:
  • Possums play a role in nutrient recycling by breaking down organic matter and returning essential nutrients to the soil.
  • This helps to support plant growth and maintain the overall health of ecosystems.
• Reduction of Fly Populations:
  • Carrion can attract flies and other insects that can spread diseases.
  • By consuming carrion, possums help to reduce fly populations and minimize the risk of insect-borne illnesses.
• Comparison to Other Scavengers:
  • While other animals also scavenge carrion, possums are particularly well-suited to this role due to their opportunistic feeding habits and their ability to thrive in a variety of habitats.
  • They are also less likely to be affected by diseases or toxins that may be present in carrion, making them efficient and effective scavengers.
• Supporting Ecosystem Health:
  • By cleaning up carrion and preventing disease spread, possums contribute to the overall health and stability of ecosystems.
  • Their scavenging activities help to maintain a balanced and resilient environment for plants, animals, and humans.

Alt text: Image of Opossum diligently scavenging a carcass, emphasizing its role in preventing disease spread.

2. What Are Some Common Myths and Misconceptions About Possums?

Many myths surround possums, including beliefs about their aggression, disease susceptibility, and intelligence. Understanding the truth dispels unwarranted fears and promotes coexistence.

Possums are often the subject of myths and misconceptions that contribute to negative perceptions of these animals. Addressing these false beliefs can help promote a more accurate understanding and foster coexistence.

• Myth: Possums are Aggressive.
  • Fact: Possums are generally shy and non-aggressive animals. When threatened, they are more likely to play dead (“playing possum”) or hiss and show their teeth rather than attack.
  • Actual attacks on humans are rare, and usually only occur if the animal feels cornered or is protecting its young.
• Myth: Possums are Dirty and Carry Diseases.
  • Fact: While possums can carry certain diseases, they are actually quite clean animals. They groom themselves regularly and are less likely to transmit rabies than many other mammals.
  • They also have a natural resistance to rabies, making them less of a threat than commonly believed.
• Myth: Possums are Rodents.
  • Fact: Possums are marsupials, not rodents. They are more closely related to kangaroos and koalas than to rats or mice.
  • Marsupials have a unique reproductive system, with females carrying their young in a pouch.
• Myth: Possums are Unintelligent.
  • Fact: Possums are actually quite intelligent animals, with a good memory and problem-solving abilities.
  • They can remember the location of food sources and navigate complex environments, demonstrating a higher level of intelligence than often assumed.
• Myth: Possums are a Threat to Pets.
  • Fact: Possums are generally not a threat to pets. They may compete for food, but they are unlikely to attack or harm dogs or cats.
  • In most cases, pets are more of a threat to possums than the other way around.
• Myth: Possums are Pests.
  • Fact: While possums can sometimes cause problems by getting into garbage or gardens, they also provide valuable pest control services by eating insects, rodents, and carrion.
  • Their benefits often outweigh the minor inconveniences they may cause.

2.1. Are Possums Really as Aggressive as People Think?

Possums are generally not aggressive. Their defensive behaviors, such as hissing or playing dead, are often mistaken for aggression.

Possums often get a bad rap for being aggressive, but the truth is far from it. Here’s a more accurate perspective:

• Defensive Behavior:
  • Possums are generally shy and non-aggressive animals. When they feel threatened, their first instinct is to avoid confrontation.
  • Their defensive behaviors, such as hissing, baring their teeth, or playing dead, are often misinterpreted as aggression.
• Playing Possum:
  • The most famous defensive tactic of possums is “playing possum.” When faced with a perceived threat, they will often feign death, becoming limp and unresponsive.
  • This behavior is an involuntary response to extreme fear and is designed to deter predators.
• Hissing and Baring Teeth:
  • If a possum feels cornered or threatened, it may hiss and bare its teeth as a warning.
  • This is a defensive display meant to scare away potential predators, rather than an indication that the possum intends to attack.
• Rare Attacks:
  • Actual attacks by possums on humans or pets are rare. They typically only occur if the animal feels cornered or is protecting its young.
  • In most cases, possums will try to escape or avoid confrontation rather than engage in aggressive behavior.
• Comparison to Other Animals:
  • Compared to other animals, such as raccoons or foxes, possums are relatively docile and non-aggressive.
  • They are more likely to be victims of aggression than perpetrators.
• Understanding Possum Behavior:
  • By understanding the defensive nature of possum behavior, we can avoid misinterpreting their actions and reduce the likelihood of negative encounters.
  • Giving possums space and avoiding direct confrontation can help to prevent defensive displays and promote peaceful coexistence.

2.2. Do Possums Carry More Diseases Than Other Animals?

Possums have a natural resistance to certain diseases, such as rabies, and are not significant carriers of others, contrary to popular belief.

One common misconception is that possums are riddled with diseases, but this isn’t necessarily true. Here’s a breakdown:

• Rabies Resistance:
  • Possums have a natural resistance to rabies, making them less likely to contract and transmit this deadly disease compared to other mammals.
  • Their low body temperature and unique immune system contribute to their resistance to rabies.
• Disease Transmission:
  • While possums can carry certain diseases, such as leptospirosis and coccidiosis, they are not significant carriers of these diseases compared to other animals.
  • The risk of transmission to humans or pets is relatively low, especially if basic hygiene practices are followed.
• Tick-Borne Diseases:
  • Possums play a beneficial role in reducing the risk of tick-borne diseases by consuming large numbers of ticks.
  • This helps to lower the overall tick population and reduce the likelihood of Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses.
• Comparison to Other Animals:
  • Compared to other animals, such as rodents and raccoons, possums are not considered to be major disease vectors.
  • In many cases, they are less likely to transmit diseases than other wildlife species.
• Hygiene Practices:
  • Basic hygiene practices, such as washing hands after contact with animals and avoiding direct contact with wildlife, can further reduce the risk of disease transmission.
  • Keeping pet food indoors and securing garbage cans can also help to prevent possums from being attracted to residential areas.
• Public Health Perspective:
  • From a public health perspective, possums are not considered to be a significant threat, and the benefits they provide in terms of pest control and carrion cleanup often outweigh the minor risks they may pose.

2.3. Are Possums Unintelligent and Just Simple Creatures?

Possums are intelligent animals with good memories and problem-solving abilities. Their behavior is more complex than many people realize.

Possums are often underestimated when it comes to intelligence, but they possess cognitive abilities that are more complex than many give them credit for. Let’s take a closer look:

• Memory and Learning:
  • Possums have a good memory and can learn from their experiences. They can remember the location of food sources and navigate complex environments.
  • This demonstrates an ability to learn and adapt, which is a sign of intelligence.
• Problem-Solving:
  • Possums are capable of solving problems, such as figuring out how to access food or shelter.
  • They can also learn to associate certain cues with rewards, indicating a level of cognitive flexibility.
• Social Behavior:
  • While possums are generally solitary animals, they do exhibit some social behavior, particularly during mating season and when raising their young.
  • This suggests a level of social intelligence and the ability to interact with others.
• Adaptability:
  • Possums are highly adaptable animals, capable of thriving in a variety of habitats and adapting to changing environmental conditions.
  • This adaptability requires a certain level of intelligence and the ability to learn and adjust to new situations.
• Comparison to Other Animals:
  • While possums may not be as intelligent as some other mammals, such as primates or dolphins, they are certainly not unintelligent creatures.
  • Their cognitive abilities are comparable to those of many other wildlife species.
• Challenging Misconceptions:
  • By challenging the misconception that possums are unintelligent, we can gain a greater appreciation for these animals and their role in the ecosystem.
  • Understanding their cognitive abilities can also help us to develop more effective strategies for managing and coexisting with possums.

3. How Can You Attract and Keep Possums Away From Your Property?

Attracting possums involves providing food and shelter, while keeping them away requires removing these resources and securing potential entry points.

Whether you want to attract or deter possums, understanding their needs and behaviors is key. Here’s how to manage their presence on your property:

3.1. How to Attract Possums to Your Garden for Natural Pest Control?

To attract possums for pest control, provide a safe habitat and avoid using pesticides.

If you’re looking to attract possums to your garden for natural pest control, here are some tips:

• Provide Shelter:
  • Possums need shelter to feel safe and secure. You can provide shelter by creating brush piles, leaving hollow logs, or installing a possum house.
  • These shelters will provide a place for possums to rest and hide from predators.
• Offer a Water Source:
  • Possums need access to water, especially during dry periods. You can provide a water source by setting out a shallow dish of water or installing a birdbath.
  • Make sure to keep the water clean and fresh.
• Avoid Pesticides:
  • Pesticides can harm possums and other beneficial wildlife. Avoid using pesticides in your garden, and opt for natural pest control methods instead.
  • Possums will be more likely to visit your garden if they know it is a safe and pesticide-free environment.
• Plant Native Vegetation:
  • Native plants provide food and shelter for possums and other wildlife. Plant a variety of native trees, shrubs, and flowers in your garden.
  • This will create a more inviting habitat for possums and help to support biodiversity.
• Leave Fallen Fruit:
  • Possums are attracted to fallen fruit. Leave fallen fruit on the ground in your garden to provide a food source for possums.
  • This can also help to keep your garden clean by preventing the buildup of rotting fruit.
• Be Patient:
  • It may take some time for possums to discover your garden and start visiting regularly. Be patient and continue to provide the resources they need.
  • Eventually, possums will recognize your garden as a safe and reliable source of food and shelter.

Alt text: A possum house designed for attracting wildlife, emphasizing the creation of safe habitats.

3.2. How to Keep Possums Away If They Become a Nuisance?

To deter possums, secure garbage cans, remove food sources, and seal entry points to buildings.

If possums are causing problems on your property, here are some steps you can take to keep them away:

• Secure Garbage Cans:
  • Possums are attracted to garbage cans in search of food. Secure your garbage cans with tight-fitting lids or use bungee cords to keep them closed.
  • You can also store garbage cans in a garage or shed to prevent possums from accessing them.
• Remove Food Sources:
  • Possums are opportunistic feeders and will eat just about anything. Remove potential food sources from your property, such as pet food, birdseed, and fallen fruit.
  • Clean up any spills or messes that could attract possums.
• Seal Entry Points:
  • Possums can enter buildings through small openings. Seal any cracks or holes in your foundation, walls, and roof.
  • Install screens over vents and chimneys to prevent possums from entering.
• Use Repellents:
  • There are a variety of commercial and homemade repellents that can deter possums. These repellents typically contain ingredients that possums find unpleasant, such as garlic, peppermint oil, or hot pepper.
  • Apply repellents around the perimeter of your property or in areas where possums are causing problems.
• Trim Trees and Shrubs:
  • Possums can use trees and shrubs to climb onto roofs and access buildings. Trim trees and shrubs to keep them away from your roof.
  • Remove any branches that are overhanging your property.
• Install Motion-Activated Lights:
  • Possums are nocturnal animals and are sensitive to light. Install motion-activated lights around your property to deter possums.
  • The sudden burst of light can startle possums and scare them away.

3.3. Are There Humane Ways to Remove Possums From Under Your House?

Humane removal involves creating a one-way exit and ensuring no young are left behind.

If a possum has taken up residence under your house, it’s important to remove it humanely. Here’s how:

• Identify Entry Points:
  • Carefully inspect the area under your house to identify all possible entry points.
  • Possums can squeeze through surprisingly small openings, so be thorough in your search.
• One-Way Exit:
  • Install a one-way exit over the main entry point. This can be a simple wire mesh cone or tube that allows the possum to exit but prevents it from re-entering.
  • You can purchase pre-made one-way exits or create your own using hardware cloth.
• Seal Other Entry Points:
  • Seal all other potential entry points to prevent the possum from simply moving to another location under your house.
  • Use hardware cloth, caulk, or expanding foam to seal these openings.
• Check for Young:
  • Before sealing the final entry point, make sure there are no young possums left behind.
  • If you suspect there are young, wait a few days to give the mother time to move them out.
• Timing is Important:
  • Avoid removing possums during the spring or summer months, as this is when they are most likely to have young.
  • If you must remove a possum during this time, contact a wildlife professional for assistance.
• Professional Help:
  • If you are uncomfortable removing the possum yourself, contact a wildlife removal service for assistance.
  • These professionals have the knowledge and equipment to safely and humanely remove possums from your property.

4. What Are the Ecological Considerations of Managing Possum Populations?

Managing possum populations requires balancing their benefits with potential drawbacks, considering their role in the ecosystem.

Managing possum populations requires careful consideration of their ecological roles and the potential impacts of any intervention. Here’s an overview of the key factors:

4.1. How Do Possums Fit Into the Food Chain and Local Ecosystems?

Possums serve as both predators and prey, influencing the populations of various species in their environment.

Possums play a significant role in the food chain and local ecosystems. Here’s a detailed look at their position:

• Predator Role:
  • Possums are opportunistic predators, meaning they hunt and kill other animals for food.
  • They prey on insects, rodents, snakes, and other small animals, helping to control their populations and maintain balance in the ecosystem.
• Prey Role:
  • Possums are also prey animals, meaning they are hunted and killed by other animals.
  • They are preyed upon by foxes, coyotes, owls, and other predators, providing a food source for these animals and supporting the food chain.
• Scavenger Role:
  • Possums are scavengers, meaning they feed on dead animals (carrion) that they find in their environment.
  • This helps to clean up the environment and prevent the spread of disease.
• Seed Dispersal:
  • Possums eat fruits and seeds and help to disperse them throughout their habitat.
  • This is important for plant growth and biodiversity.
• Ecosystem Engineers:
  • Possums can be considered ecosystem engineers because their activities can modify the environment in ways that benefit other species.
  • For example, their digging and foraging activities can help to aerate the soil and promote plant growth.
• Impact on Other Species:
  • Possums can have both positive and negative impacts on other species in the ecosystem.
  • Their predation can help to control pest populations, but they can also compete with other animals for food and resources.

Alt text: Opossum captured as both predator and prey, illustrating its influence in the food chain and ecosystem.

4.2. What Are the Potential Impacts of Removing Possums From an Area?

Removing possums can lead to increased pest populations, decreased carrion cleanup, and potential imbalances in the ecosystem.

Removing possums from an area can have several ecological consequences:

• Increased Pest Populations:
  • Possums play a key role in controlling pest populations by preying on insects, rodents, and other small animals.
  • Removing possums can lead to an increase in pest populations, which can damage crops, gardens, and property.
• Decreased Carrion Cleanup:
  • Possums are scavengers and help to clean up dead animals (carrion) in the environment.
  • Removing possums can result in a decrease in carrion cleanup, which can lead to the spread of disease and unpleasant odors.
• Imbalances in the Ecosystem:
  • Possums are part of a complex web of interactions in the ecosystem.
  • Removing possums can disrupt these interactions and lead to imbalances in the ecosystem.
• Impact on Other Species:
  • Removing possums can have both direct and indirect impacts on other species in the ecosystem.
  • For example, predators that rely on possums as a food source may suffer if possum populations decline.
• Loss of Biodiversity:
  • Possums are part of the biodiversity of an area.
  • Removing possums can contribute to a loss of biodiversity, which can make ecosystems less resilient to environmental changes.
• Unintended Consequences:
  • Removing possums can have unintended consequences that are difficult to predict.
  • It’s important to carefully consider the potential impacts of removing possums before taking any action.

4.3. How Can We Promote Coexistence With Possums in Urban and Suburban Environments?

Coexistence involves managing food sources, providing safe habitats, and educating the public about the benefits of possums.

Promoting coexistence with possums in urban and suburban environments involves a combination of strategies that address their needs while minimizing potential conflicts. Here’s a comprehensive approach:

• Manage Food Sources:
  • Secure garbage cans with tight-fitting lids to prevent possums from accessing food waste.
  • Store pet food indoors and avoid leaving it outside overnight.
  • Clean up any spills or messes that could attract possums.
• Provide Safe Habitats:
  • Create brush piles or leave hollow logs in your yard to provide shelter for possums.
  • Plant native vegetation that provides food and cover for possums and other wildlife.
  • Avoid using pesticides, which can harm possums and other beneficial animals.
• Educate the Public:
  • Educate your neighbors and community members about the benefits of possums and the importance of coexistence.
  • Share information about how to prevent conflicts with possums and how to create a wildlife-friendly environment.
• Install Fencing:
  • Install fencing around gardens or other areas you want to protect from possums.
  • Make sure the fencing is high enough and buried deep enough to prevent possums from climbing over or digging under it.
• Use Motion-Activated Lights:
  • Install motion-activated lights around your property to deter possums.
  • The sudden burst of light can startle possums and scare them away.
• Humane Removal:
  • If you have a possum that is causing problems, consider hiring a wildlife removal service to humanely trap and relocate it.
  • Avoid using traps that can injure or kill possums.

WHY.EDU.VN knows understanding the ecological considerations of managing possum populations is crucial for maintaining healthy and balanced ecosystems. Balancing their benefits with potential drawbacks ensures these animals can continue to contribute positively to our environment.

Do you have more questions about possums or other wildlife? Visit WHY.EDU.VN at 101 Curiosity Lane, Answer Town, CA 90210, United States. Contact us via WhatsApp at +1 (213) 555-0101, or visit our website why.edu.vn to ask your questions and get answers from our experts. Let us help you explore the natural world with confidence.

FAQ: Understanding Opossums and Their Benefits

• Are opossums dangerous to humans?
  • Opossums are generally not dangerous to humans. They are shy and non-aggressive, preferring to avoid confrontation.
• Do opossums carry rabies?
  • Opossums have a natural resistance to rabies, making them less likely to contract and transmit the disease.
• Are opossums good for gardens?
  • Yes, opossums are beneficial for gardens as they eat insects, snails, and slugs that can damage plants.
• How do opossums help control tick populations?
  • Opossums groom themselves meticulously, consuming thousands of ticks that attach to their bodies.
• What should I do if I find an opossum on my property?
  • Leave it alone if it appears healthy. If it seems injured or sick, contact a local wildlife rescue organization.
• How can I keep opossums out of my garbage?
  • Secure your garbage cans with tight-fitting lids and store them in a garage or shed.
• Do opossums dig holes in the yard?
  • Opossums typically do not dig holes but may use existing burrows made by other animals.
• What do opossums eat?
  • Opossums are omnivores and eat a variety of foods, including insects, fruits, vegetables, carrion, and small animals.
• Are opossums rodents?
  • No, opossums are marsupials, more closely related to kangaroos and koalas than to rodents.
• How long do opossums live?
  • Opossums typically live for 1-2 years in the wild.