AnimaliaIUCN LCApproved Recent Sighting
Didelphis virginiana
Virginia Opossum
Kerr, 1792
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
Medium-sized marsupial with a long snout, naked black ears, and a long, hairless prehensile tail. Its fur is grayish with a white face.
Added by
Anonymous Curator
Reviewed by
Julia Trouin
Last modified by
Julia Trouin
Taxonomy
PhylumChordata
ClassMammalia
OrderDidelphimorphia
FamilyDidelphidae
GenusDidelphis
Taxonomic AuthorityKerr, 1792
Ecology & Status
Origin
Native
Population Trend
Stable
Breeding Season
Year Round
Trophic Role
Omnivore
Recent Sightings
Yes
Habitat Summary Multi-lang
Extremely adaptable; inhabits everything from forests and marshy areas to densely populated and urban areas.Behaviour Multi-lang
Omnivore: consumes insects, fruits, carrion, small animals, and human waste.Social Activity Multi-lang
Solitary and nocturnal.Feeding Guild Multi-lang
Facultatively arboreal; spends much time on the ground but can climb.Trophic Chain Details Multi-lang
Pest controller and seed disperser.Reproductive Behaviour Multi-lang
Reproduction system via marsupial pouch; altricial young.Physical Measures
Length (cm)
35.0 - 55.0 cm
Weight (Grams)
2.00 kg - 6.00 kg
Offspring per cycle5 - 20
Sexual DimorphismYes
Lifespan
Sexual Maturity
0.6 - 0.8 Years
Gestation / Incubation
12 - 13
Lifespan Estimated
Males2 - 3 Years
Females2 - 3 Years
Sexual Dimorphism
Males Multi-lang
Males are significantly larger than females.
Females Multi-lang
Females have a marsupial pouch to carry their young.
Evolutionary Adaptations Multi-lang
Unique ability to play dead (thanatosis) as a defense mechanism and natural resistance to snake venom.
Main Threats Multi-lang
Frequent roadkill, attacks by domestic pets, and persecution by humans who consider them pests.
Interesting Facts Multi-lang
It is the only marsupial found naturally in the United States and Canada.