Opossum

Scientific Name: Didelphis virginiana
Common Name: Virginia Opossum (the only marsupial in North America!)

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Virginia opossums are found across:

• North America, especially the United States, Mexico, and parts of southern Canada

They thrive in:

• Forests, farmlands, suburban areas — even under decks or sheds

• Near water sources and places with shelter and food

Fun Facts

• Opossums are marsupials, meaning babies (called joeys) grow in a pouch—just like kangaroos!

• They’re known for “playing dead” (thanatosis), a defense where they flop over, drool, and emit a bad smell to deter predators.

• Baby opossums ride on their mom’s back until they’re old enough to go off on their own.

• Opossums are immune to most snake venom, including rattlesnakes!

• They eat ticks—up to 5,000 per season—helping control the spread of Lyme disease.

 Endangered Status

• Virginia Opossum: Not Endangered — classified as Least Concern

• They are highly adaptable, which helps them survive in both wild and urban environments.

• Some related species outside the U.S. (like in South America) may be more at risk due to habitat loss.