Virginia opossum
Scientific name
Didelphis marsupialis virginiana
Lifespan
2 years in the wild, 4 years in captivity
Range
Viriginia opossums can be found throughout much of North and Central America in a variety of habitats.
Diet
Viriginia opossums are ominvores and eat a wide-ranging diet of insects, fruits and plant matter, eggs, small invertebrates, fish, small mammals, small birds, and amphibians. Viriginia opossums are excellent at keeping tick populations in check.
Social Structure
Opossums are predominantly solitary. For this species, gestation lasts only 11-13 days, and litters will be made up of 8-9 infants. Newborns are as small as a honeybee. Contrary to popular belief, opossums are marsupials, not rodents.
Conservation Status
Threats in the Wild
Virginia opossums are highly adaptable. The most common cause of mortality is vehicle collisions, but their populations are increasing in the wild.
Their Story
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