The Opossum is the only native mammal in North America that has an abdominal pouch in which the young are carried for growth and development. Often referred to as a living fossil, the opossum represents the survivors of an ancient race that dates back millions of years. These animals now range over the eastern two-thirds of the United States and have recently become established in parts of the West.

Large numbers of opossum are killed annually along our highways and others are taken for fur. They provide sport to night hunters and baked opossum is a traditional dish in some areas. The fur is of low grade and is used mostly in trims on inexpensive clothing.

Economically, the opossum is generally considered an asset. Individuals may be a nuisance at garbage cans or bird feeders, may occasionally raid poultry houses, smash eggs and kill small chickens, may disturb or molest game birds or animals or may damage corn crops. However, these bad deeds of a few may offset the many good deeds of the majority that act as scavengers and destroyers of insects and other pests.

The opossum is a grayish animal with long, coarse, bushy fur; a long, narrow, whitish, fox-like face; prominent, thin, naked ears; skull set with 50 teeth and a small brain; short legs of about equal length; and a long grasping, scaly, rat-like tail.

Opossums are generally shy, secretive and nocturnal. When pursued, they may climb trees or brush piles to escape. When frightened, they may expose their teeth and drip saliva from the mouth, or hiss and make a clicking sound. One means of defense is the characteristic habit of "playing possum". When attacked the animal rolls on its side, becomes limp and appears lifeless. This reaction is apparently a brief nervous shock and the animal recovers quickly to escape.

Dogs, foxes, coyotes, bobcats, great-horned owls and men are the predators of the opossum. When control is necessary, opossums may be taken using box or live traps. Meat scraps, chicken entrails, fish or moist dog food can be used as bait. If the bait is suspended above the trap, it will be more efficient.

Altman R W.(1980).OPOSSUM, pp.1-3. Manhattan, NY: Oklahoma State University