​Opossums are solitary and nocturnal animals that are about the size of a standard domestic cat. They are generally opportunists, as they frequently inhabit settled areas near food sources such as trash cans, pet food, compost piles, gardens, or house mice. Opossums are marsupials, similar to a kangaroo, as they give birth to very underdeveloped young, which are attached to the mother inside their pouch, which is located on the mother’s belly. Opossums have a shorter life span as they live on average for seven (7) years and only mate during the spring and summer seasons.

When an Opossum feels threatened, their response can appear very scary to an unknowing individual, as they do not run away; instead, they expose their mouths and teeth and drool more excessively. In some cases, they may even growl or hiss. When this does not work, they may drop to the ground and play dead until the threat is gone.

It is recommended that if you encounter an opossum, you just keep your distance, including your children or pets, as within 24 hours, they are likely to move on.