The Virginia opossum is the only marsupial found in North America. Marsupials are animals whose young are born undeveloped and finish their development in a pouch on the mother's body. These marsupials are about the size of a house cat, with a pointed snout and a long, prehensile tail. You may only be familiar with Virginia Opossums, the only opossum species in the United States. But did you know that there are different types of opossums? Here's a quick guide to the different opossums you might encounter. Different Kinds of Opossums Over the decades and significant generations, all the species alive today have developed characteristics that make them distinct. They may have evolved due to environmental conditions, geographical isolation, or other creatures with whom they share their habitat. Below, you can find the different species of opossum! Water Opossum One opossum species you might encounter, especially near bodies of water, is the Water Opossums. This species, Chironectes minimus, is known as yapok locally. They are the only existing member of their genus, Chironectes. Water opossums are particularly small opossums. They can grow up to 11 and 13 inches long, which excludes their 14 to 16 inches long tail. These marsupials are patterned with grey and black fur. Their muzzle up to the back of their head is all black, except that they have a thin, white line of fur above their eye. Below their muzzle, down to the mouth and stomach, are all white. These species are more rat-like compared to Virginia opossums. Water opossums are well-known for their aquatic adaptations. Their fur is water repellent, and their webbed hind feet allow them to stroke through the water. These semi-aquatic beings exist throughout Mexico, Argentina, and Central and South America. With their water-loving behavior, they are often found near bodies of water, such as lakes and freshwater streams. Big Lutrine Opossum Scientifically known as Lutreolina crassicaudata, it garners the local name thick-tailed opossum or coligrueso. These species obtain the name "lutrine," which means "otter-like." This is because of their specifically otter-like body. These marsupials are native to South America. Under their genus Lutreolina, another distinct species exist- the  Lutreolina massoia. These two are the only living species under their genus. The Big Lutrine Opossum is an exciting species of the family. These species are similar to water opossums, being good swimmers. Most of them have a fur color appearing as yellowish or dense red. They prefer living near bodies of water but not far from grasslands and savannas. Woolly Opossum Called Caluromys philander in scientific language, the woolly opossum is a bare-tailed woolly opossum in its full name. They are first described by the famous Carl Linnaeus, a Swedish zoologist. These species are easily recognizable with their gray head and brown to gray fur. A visibly large, brown eye features this animal. They also have ears that appear to be bigger than other opossums mentioned.  Woolly opossums obtained their name because of their partially naked tail. It's only furry at the base. You may also notice the thin lining of black fur between their eyes, extending from their muzzle to the middle of their forehead. Woolly opossums extend from Northern and Southern Brazil to Venezuela. Brown Four-Eyed Opossum While you may think that all opossums have pouches, it's not. All the way from Mexico to Bolivia and Brazil, brown four-eyed opossums, Metachirus nudicaudatus, reside. These species are pouchless opossums. Like Water Opossums, brown four-eyed opossums are the only recognized species in their genus, Metachirus. They have a white spot in each of their eyes, which inspires their name. One thing that marks their identity is their tails which measure longer than their body. Brown four-eyed opossums build their nests in the branches of trees, on rock crevices, and under logs. These nests are made of random forest materials such as leaves and twigs. Bushy Tail Opossum It seems like we have a lot of opossums first described by zoologists! Oldfield Thomas gave the first descriptions for this species, the Glironia venusta. These animals belong to the genus Glironia. The populations exist in the Amazon of South America. Although there is still a lot to learn about these species, one thing for sure is that they love to dwell on canopies. This bushy-tailed opossum is as distinct as the previously discussed species. They are called its name for their specifically bushy tails. Other features that best present these marsupials are dark ears, which appear large and oval. It's important to know that these species are rare. For this reason, only little is known about their behavior. Marmosa Opossum Now, we have here a uniquely exciting species, the Marmosa xerophila. These species exist in the northern side portion of Venezuela and Colombia. This is another opossum that doesn't carry pouches with them! They are notable for their large ears, large eyes, and dark fur that surrounds their eyes- like raccoons! A long, slender body and prehensile tails also manifest this species. If you ever encounter this opossum species, you'll notice a pale yellow or grayish brown dorsal fur and a combination of these colors on their tails. So, if you ever meet one, take the opportunity to identify what species by also considering the descriptions above! Indeed, you'll get to appreciate them. Thylamys As cute as the name sounds, these opossum species are also very small and tiny! And like the Marmosa opossum, this group doesn't have pouches with them too! Adorable, if you like to call it. To specify the species, Thylamys elegans is the elegant fat-tailed mouse opossum. This is first described by a famous naturalist named George Robert Waterhouse. This species mainly got its name for its mouse-like size and appearance. With fur coats that appear gray, white limbs and the black ring of fur surrounding the eyes, these marsupials achieve an adorable look. This species can live in a wide range of habitats. They can even exist 8200 feet above sea level. They can specifically be found in the western areas of the Andes in the country of Chile. Pretty sure these animals withstand freezing temperatures. Gracilinanus agilis The Agile Opossums are arboreal species of the central South American areas. There are numerous reports of sightings in countries like Argentina, Bolivia, Paraguay, and Brazil. You may have thought there are only a few pouchless marsupials, but this species will break it to you again! This is partially why they're referred to or grouped as mouse opossums. These opossums tend to exhibit dusky gray dorsal fur and light gray ventral fur. They also have a thin, dark ring that surrounds their adorable eyes. This is no different feature compared to other mouse opossums. Pygmy Short-Tailed Opossum Last but not least, we have the Pygmy Short-Tailed Opossum (Monodelphis kunsi). These are pouchless marsupials as well. This is another opossum that exists in South America. More popularly referred to as "joeys," these are smaller species within their entire family. But this name is only for males, though! Female opossums in this family are called "Jill." The term "pygmy" signifies their significantly small size. This species was initially categorized as endangered in the year 2001. But after that, they've been classified as the least concern. Out of all the mouse-like opossums out there, these opossums resemble them the best. When you bump into them, you'll surely go into confusion! The fur coat of this species is shorter and is faded brown in color. The Common Virginia Opossum Now that we've looked at the different opossums, it's about time we focus on the most popular one- the Virginia Opossum (Didelphis virginiana). You might have heard of this marsupial before, as it is commonly seen in North America. In fact, it is the only extant species on the entire continent! This common opossum can measure 14 to 37 inches. This excludes the tail length, which is usually 5 to 19 inches. As for their weight, they can go from 1 to 4 kilograms. The males are, of course, bigger than the females. Viriginia Opossums exhibit an omnivorous diet. They are also nocturnal, meaning they're active at night and sleep during the day. The most unique feature of this opossum is its white-faced appearance. And the most fascinating behavior is their defense mechanism for "playing possum." When they are threatened or feel scared, they will fall on their side and remain still for a period of time. Their mouths will also drool and exude a foul odor. This is to make them appear dead and distasteful to predators. Other Opossum Species After discussing several species of opossums above, you know they're indeed exciting and diverse. So, it's no surprise that there are a lot more species that exist in the wild. Here are other species of opossums: Common Opossum - Didelphis marsupialis Heavy-browed mouse opossum - Marmosa andersoni ​​​​​​​​Yellow-sided opossum - Monodelphis dimidiata Red three-striped opossum - Monodelphis umbristriata One-striped opossum - ​Monodelphis unistriata White-eared opossum - Didelphis albiventris  Black-shouldered opossum - Caluromysiops irrupta Ihering's three-striped opossum- Monodelphis iheringi Hooded red-sided opossum - Monodelphis palliolata  ​​​​​​​Gray and black four-eyed opossum - Philander opossum Brown-eared woolly opossum - Caluromys lanatus Need Help With Opossum Infestation On Your Property? Dealing with opossums yourself can have you face risks to your health. But, keeping them can have potential property damage too! If you have an opossum infestation on your property, don't hesitate to call AAAC Wildlife Removal for help. Final Word Animals, through time, have developed characteristics and habits that make them classified into different species. The opossum is no different! There are a lot of them existing in South American countries. This includes Water Opossum, Big Lutrine Opossum, Woolly Opossum, and Brown Four-Eyed Opossum. At the same time, the only North American marsupial is the common Virginia Opossum. There you have it! These are the different kinds of opossums that exist in the world. Now that you know more about them, maybe you'll be able to appreciate them more the next time you see one. To explore more about the various types of opossums and the damage they can cause, click here: opossum types.

• Brian Moss (President)
• AAAC Wildlife Removal

11/28/2022

Total words : 1679

For small mammals like the opossums, it can be very challenging to thrive in the environment, especially with the presence of bigger animals in the wild. They always become targeted as prey because they are easy to hunt and kill. In order to survive, these creatures have learned to adapt in different ways. This includes their defense mechanism to "play dead," where they feign death to protect themselves. However, opossums are not always successful con artists. Fast, powerful, and ferocious animals in the wild can capture them before they even take action. Let's identify these predators! What Eats Opossums: Animals That Prey On Opossums The ecosystem cannot be in balance without turning its organisms into predators and preys. So even with the opossum's "playing dead" skill, they cannot avoid being hunted and killed by other wildlife. The natural predators that eat possums include the following: Red Foxes The red fox is one of the most popular opossum predators. They are cunning and quick, which makes it difficult for the opossums to escape. When they see a good opportunity, these animals will immediately pounce on their prey. Red Foxes are the largest of the true foxes. They have long cone-like snouts and red fur across their face and all over their body except their stomach which is white. They love to lurk around open areas of woodlands, wetlands, brushy fields, and both rural and suburban neighborhoods. The opossum, raccoon, rodent, and hare are included in foxes' favorite food. They mostly hunt alone or in pairs at night, no wonder how the nocturnal opossums turn into poor little prey. Hawks Hawks are also one of the animals that consume opossums. These birds of prey have a sharp sense of sight and can spot their target from far away. Once they aimed their target, they quickly dive usually from a concealed perch and grab their victim with their sharp talons. They usually go after young and small animals, which makes young opossums an easy meal for them. These creatures are birds of prey or raptors from the Accipitridae family. Like many other birds, they are tetrachromats, meaning they have four types of cone cells in their eyes that enable them to see a wider range of colors than most animals. This gives them the amazing ability to see small animals from very far away. There are different species of hawks and they exist on many continents. The most common ones that hunt opossums are Cooper's hawk, red-tailed hawk, and broad-winged hawk. Owls Opossums become no match for these predators as they can be easily killed and eaten. Like hawks, owls are tagged as ruthless birds of prey that feast on small mammals. They have a great sense of hearing, which allows them to locate their prey even in complete darkness. Owls are the night-active counterparts of the diurnal hawks. Their size range is similar to each other, about 13–70 cm, and wingspans between 1–6.6 feet, although owls belong to the lower end of the given range. The infamous great-horned owls are known for preying on small mammals like the opossums. They are found in wooded areas across North and South America and are known to be one of the most fierce predators in the wild. Cats Cats are not only house pets, but they can also be ferocious predators in the wild. They are known to be one of the main animals eating opossums. There are different types of cat that hunts opossums. The most common ones include bobcats, cougars, and lynxes. These felines are mostly nocturnal and are very skilled in hunting their prey. Bobcats Bobcats are the most common type of wild cat native to North America. They exist from across southern Canada through the conterminous United States and Oaxaca in Mexico. These medium-sized cats have tawny brown fur with black spots and streaks on their body. One of their key features is their short "bobbed" tail that can be up to 12 inches. They can weigh between 11 and 30 pounds, with males being larger than females. Their diet consists of small mammals like rabbits, squirrels, ad rodents, with baby opossums being their favorite snack. Cougars Cougars are also known as pumas, mountain lions, or panthers. They are the largest felines in the Western Hemisphere and the third largest in the world. Male cougars can weigh up to 200 pounds while females can reach up to 140 pounds. Cougars also have tawny-colored fur with black markings on their face, similar to lions. They can live up to 13 years in the wild and up to 21 years in captivity. They are best tagged as skilled hunters, preying on animals as large as deer. However, they will also eat smaller prey such as rodents, rabbits, and even baby opossums. Lynx You may compare lynx as a more conniving and fiercer version of house cats. They are wild cats that range across Europe, Asia, and North America. They are similar in appearance to other wild cats such as the cougar and bobcat, but they have black tufts of hair on the tips of their ears. These felines are nocturnal hunters and use their sharp hearing and vision to help them find their prey. Their diet consists of mostly rabbits, but they will also eat possums, rodents, and birds. Dogs Dogs are considered to be man's best friend, but they're one of the worst enemies to opossums. Even these domesticated dogs that we have at home can pose a threat to these small marsupials. These animals are often used by humans for hunting purposes. They have a strong sense of smell, which helps them track down their prey. The most common type of dog that hunts opossums are coyotes. They are found in wooded areas across North America and are considered to be one of the most dangerous predators in the wild. Other predators from their family that religiously eats opossums and other small mammals are wolves and dingoes. Human Of course, humans cannot be taken off the list. We are the most intelligent creatures on Earth and we have the ability to hunt any animal we want. In North America, opossums are not commonly hunted by humans. But in some parts of the world like Australia, they are often killed for their meat. This does not occur that often though, as these species are legally protected. Also, they have a bad reputation for carrying parasites if cooked the wrong way, the same as every rodent and other mammals. Opossums more often get killed by humans on the road- hit by cars. Opossums have poor hearing and eyesight during the day, so they'll likely get hit when they cross roads. But even if they notice them coming, they might feel threatened and "play dead", so they still fall victim to roadkills and the speeding wheels of vehicles. How the opossum defends itself Opossums are expert bluffers. They are known for their "playing dead" tactic, like fainting, which they use to defend themselves against predators. This usually happens when a predator is attacking them or if they're caught in the middle of the road. When they do this, they roll over on their side, drool, and close their eyes, then release a fluid near their tail that makes an overpowering and unpleasant smell, making predators move along the trail. In addition, opossums hiss and growl when they feel threatened. They also bare their teeth and release a saliva foam to warn predators to stay away. But they're not actually aggressive. They only do this to fool predators and pretend they're ferocious too. Possum Facts! Did you know that... The Virginia opossums are the only marsupial native to North America. Other 100 species are found in South America. "Playing possum" or "Playing dead" is not a voluntary action of opossums. This is actually an immediate and involuntary defense mechanism to drive out their preys. Opossums are arboreal marsupials, which means they live on trees and they are animals with pouches (female opossums). The Virginia opossum and the common opossum are not the same species. The common opossum is Didelphis marsupials in scientific terms, while the Virginia opossum is Didelphis virginiana . Female opossums eat usually give birth to as many as 25 baby opossums. Opossums have prehensile tails, similar to monkeys. They are not a carnivore or a scavenger, but an omnivore. Their food sources include snakes, reptiles, eggs, etc. Interestingly, they are immune to snake venom and other pit vipers. Need Help With Removing Possums on Your Property? If you have possums messing up your yard then the best way to get rid of them is to hire a professional opossum removal service like AAAC Wildlife Removal. We will come to your home or office and take care of the problem for you. We have the experience, knowledge, and tools to get the job done right. Spotted opossums on your property? Waste no time, and give us a call now! Final Word So there you have it! Opossums being small and vulnerable have many predators. Although they have evolved defenses, they are still prone to be attacked and killed by other animals. This predation and preying pattern is an endless cycle of the environment. It may be a harsh reality for opossums, but it holds a great contribution to the balance of the ecosystem. If you see an opossum in the wild, it's best to leave it alone and let it be. And if you ever need help in removing them, don't hesitate to contact AAAC Wildlife Removal.

• Brian Moss (President)
• AAAC Wildlife Removal

11/28/2022

Total words : 1582

Opossums are nocturnal animals that are known for having pouches like kangaroos. These marsupials are native to Australia and New Zealand, and North America. In the U.S. the Virginia Opossum is the only marsupial and the only species found. Opossums are nocturnal animals that are about the size of a house cat. They have a pointed snout, small ears, and a long, prehensile tail. Opossums are omnivores and will eat just about anything, including carrion. While most people know about their habits and appearance, few only know when they produce offspring. So, let's find out! Mating Season of Opossums The mating season for possums generally begins at the end of winter, falling between January and March. During this time, female possums release a scent when in heat, and the male navigates the smell given off. But, selecting a partner is a mutual decision.  The male opossums will also perform a "show" of sorts by making loud grunting noises and urine spraying to mark their territory. Mating Habits of Opossums During the mating season, opossums will go through a lot of changes. The first change is their diet; the opossum will consume more food during this time as they need to create more energy for mating. Secondly, male and female hormones will surge, making them more aggressive. The male opossum will also start to urine mark more to attract potential mates and mark their territories. Lastly, the scrotum of a male opossum will increase in size as they prepare for the breeding season. When an opossum is ready to mate, the female will release a special scent from her genitals. The male will then follow the scent until he finds the female. The mating process can last anywhere from 30 minutes to 3 hours. Afterward, the male opossum will start to search for another mate. How many offsprings do opossums have? Opossums produce 6-8 babies at a time, but some have been known to have up to 13 babies. Newborn opossums are born very underdeveloped and about the jellybean size. They make their way into the mother's pouch and will attach themselves to a teat. They will not detach until they are 4-5 weeks old. After birth, female opossums get protective over their young and become more aggressive. They will also start to produce special milk high in fat and protein to help them grow quickly. Opossums do not raise young by themselves The father opossum leaves right after a successful mate. The mother will spend most of her time in her nest with her young until they are old enough to leave the nest and fend for themselves. The female is now left to fend for and raise the young by herself. The factor leading to male opossums not participating in child-rearing is the females keeping them closely inside the pouch. If they ventured out, the mother opossum would most likely attack them. Where does opossum nest? Opossums do not build nests because they keep their young in their pouch. So, a mother opossum will typically lurk around their usual habitats. This includes trees, abandoned burrows, and brush piles. However, there is a special type of opossum- the ringtail possum. They are the only species of a possum that builds nests. These nests are built out of leaves and twigs and are usually found in the crook of thick branches or the hollows of trees. Opossums reproduction Possums are induced ovulators, meaning the female's body only releases eggs when she is ready to mate. Possums also have a relatively unique way of giving birth: they give birth to underdeveloped young, making their way into the mother's pouch to continue developing. These marsupials have a short gestation period because the young develops outside the womb. The gestation last approximately two weeks. Opossums also have a relatively unique way of giving birth. When the female is ready to give birth, she will push the babies out of her vagina and into her marsupium (pouch). From the birth canal, baby opossums will then find their way to a teat and attach themselves. When young opossums become too big to fit inside the pouch, they will make their way to the exit and climb onto the mother's back. The young opossums will ride on the mother's back until they become entirely independent. Opossum Facts Possums have an involuntary mechanism called "Playing Opossum." This pertains to their apparent death or ability to act dead whenever they feel threatened. Possums have a prehensile tail. The tails enable their balance and act as a fifth limb, similar to monkeys. This means they can use their tails to grip and hold on to things. Their hind feet have an opposable first toe, which they use to grip branches and help them climb. Have A Opossums Infestation Problem? Call Us Today! If you currently have opossum problems, call AAAC Wildlife Removal immediately. We are experts in handling all sorts of wildlife, from the common to the exotic. We will come to your home or office and safely remove the animals and clean and repair any damage they may have caused. Give us a call today! Final Word Opossums have fascinating mating habits and reproductive behaviors. They mate during the months of January through March, with females emitting an attractive scent and males using grunting noises and urine spray marks to impress them. After successful mating, female opossums give birth to 6-8 babies and nurse them on their own, without assistance from the male. Opossums possess unique characteristics and behaviors that make them intriguing creatures. However, if you find yourself dealing with an opossum problem, it's important to seek professional assistance. AAAC Wildlife Removal is here to help. To learn more about opossum mating season, click here: opossum mating season. Our team of experts can provide effective solutions and guidance for opossum-related issues, ensuring the safety and well-being of both humans and wildlife.

• Brian Moss (President)
• AAAC Wildlife Removal

11/28/2022

Total words : 982