Species MammalsVirginia Opossum

Virginia Opossum

Didelphis virginiana

CommonMammal
Illustration of Virginia Opossum (Didelphis virginiana)
Safety note: Do not handle wild opossums.

The Virginia Opossum is the only marsupial native to North America. Females carry young in a pouch. Famous for 'playing dead' when threatened — a genuine involuntary physiological response.

Habitat
Forests, farmland, and suburban neighborhoods near water
Diet
Omnivorous: insects, carrion, fruit, eggs, and refuse
How common
Common

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