Possums Overview
Possums, also known as opossums, are North America’s only marsupial. These nocturnal creatures are known for their ability to adapt to various environments, thriving in wooded areas, open fields, and even urban settings. With their grayish-white fur, pointed faces, and long, hairless tails, possums are easily recognizable. They play a crucial role in the ecosystem by controlling insect populations and cleaning up decaying matter. Despite their benefits, possums can become a nuisance when they venture too close to human dwellings, rummaging through garbage or inhabiting crawl spaces.
Possums Diet
Possums have an omnivorous diet, showcasing their adaptability to various environments. They consume a wide range of foods, including fruits, grains, insects, small rodents, eggs, and even carrion. This dietary flexibility often leads possums to scavenge in human-populated areas, searching through garbage cans, compost bins, and pet food bowls. While their scavenging habits can be beneficial in reducing unwanted pests and waste, it can also bring them into conflict with humans, especially when they venture indoors in search of food.
Possums Scat
Possum scat is distinctive and can be an indicator of their presence in your area. Their droppings are usually about the size of dog feces and contain visible remnants of their omnivorous diet, such as seeds, fur, and bones. The shape can vary but often resembles small, twisted links. Identifying possum scat in your property is essential for determining if possums are the source of any disturbances or potential health risks, as their waste can carry diseases harmful to humans and pets.
Possums Tracks
Possum tracks are unique and can help in identifying their presence around your property. Their tracks show five finger-like toes on both front and hind feet, with the rear tracks resembling tiny human hands due to their opposable thumbs. This feature is particularly distinctive among North American wildlife. Possum tracks often appear close together due to their slow, ambling gait. Recognizing these tracks can be vital in managing possum activity and preventing any potential conflicts with these creatures.