The opossum is native to North and South America and is common in our local area. They hang out in trees and enjoy wet areas such as marshes, swamps, and near streams. They were hanging around the New England area before the Colonists arrived, and Captain John Smith gave them their name in the early 1600s, Apossoun, meaning "white beast." In the late 1700s, Sir Joseph Banks compared the apossoun to the creatures he saw in Australia.
Fossils indicate that the marsupial's roots go as far back as the dinosaur era, making it one of the oldest mammals. Time has allowed them to evolve and adapt. Opossums tend to command their ground, which puts curious dogs in a stand-off situation. When the animal is in danger, its sharp teeth come in handy. Instead of trying to chase down the marsupial in the dark as it hisses at you, contact us and we'll handle the situation for you.
Difference Between Opossums And Possums
Opossums and possums are two different animals from the same species. Possums are found in New Guinea, Australia, Indonesia, and other parts of the Pacific region. It has a furry tail, and there are several varieties. On the other hand, the opossum is limited in variety and is the sole marsupial found in the Americas. Marsupials carry their babies in their pouch, and when they outgrow it, they hang onto their mother's back as they travel together.
If you've seen a white and gray animal on your property with a body shaped like a cat, you probably spotted an opossum. Researchers have found that they don't dig holes in the soil or chew through wood and other materials. Nonetheless, de-cluttering your property gives them fewer places to hide.
While they are often cute, they do not make good pets. Wildlife agencies across the country believe that these animals should be allowed to live in the wild where they belong. However, they are a nuisance when they end up in your trash cans, searching for food. At this point, it's time to bring in our crew. We employ appropriate removal and exclusion techniques to get them back on their way.
Opossum Characteristics
This wild animal has a robust immune system, even to rabies and snake venom. Opossums are adept tree climbers with sharp claws and hang from trees upside-down by their tails. Opossums are great for killing ticks, vermin, and bugs and cleaning up roadkill. If they do get sick, you will need the training to be able to tell.
Playing dead is not a game; it's a characteristic they can't control. Wildlife professionals compare it to fainting. Nonetheless, playing dead helps them get out of dangerous situations. As they lay there with their tongue hanging out, they emit a stench from the green mucus they involuntarily secrete.
If you have opossum problems, we can help. Contact us today, and we'll send one of our team members to inspect your property. Then, we'll take the appropriate action.
