Opossums
The Virginia Opossum is the only marsupial (pouched) animal in Tennessee. The opossum has a number of behavioral adaptations used for survival, and when threatened, can display aggressive behavior. Homeowners must remain alert, as opossums display unpredictable behavior. Opossums range in size from 25 – 40 inches in length, and weigh between 9-13 pounds. Their tails can be upwards of 15 inches long. With their long prehensile tails and opposable rear thumbs, opossums are excellent climbers. They have extremely hardy immune system that often protects them from rabies and snake venom. Opossums are nocturnal, and seek out most of their food at night. Similar to raccoons (Link to: link to raccoon pages), opossums eat almost anything including: dog and cat food, nuts, fruit, eggs, insects, slugs, snails, lizards, frogs, and plants. Opossums are solidary animals, and tend to live alone when they are not breeding. Their breeding season is between the months of January and October. They give birth to up to two litters of 4-8 young, refereed to as joeys. The ideal opossum habitat includes quality access to food, water, and reliable shelter. Opossums find refuge in abandoned animal dens and tree holes. They tend to seek shelter in woodlands, forest, near rivers and farmland, and occasionally in human homes.
Opossums have a habit of scouring for scraps in human garbage cans, grills, and vegetable trees and bushes. If opossums are threatening your home or property, call in the experts. Ace Wildlife can provide safe and humane relocations for any possums found on your property./p>