OPOSSUMS

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North America’s only marsupial, the Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana) is quite adaptable and can also be found in suburbia and the city. They are opportunists that will take any shelter it can stay dry and safe from predators, often using deserted dens of other animals, brush piles, tree holes or openings under old buildings. Solitary and nocturnal, they are omnivorous and will eat carrion, insects, fish, reptiles, eggs, fruits, vegetables, and nuts.

   Their best known behavior is that of “playing possum.” When threatened, the opossum may hiss and bare its teeth, or leak a nasty fluid out of its rear. More likely, though, it will roll over and lay motionless, appearing to be dead. When the danger is past, it “revives” and resumes its activities. 

   While generally not damaging themselves, opossums can potentially carry and transmit Leptospirosis, Coccidiosis, and Salmonella. A parasite found in their feces can contaminate water and food sources for horses (both hay and feed). This parasite can transmit a disease to horses, called Equine Protozoal Myelitis, which affects the nervous system and can cause lameness.