Opossums originated in South America and entered North America in the Great American Interchange following the connection of North and South America in the late Cenozoic. The …

Prepare to delve into the world of the opossum, uncovering its secrets, dispelling myths, and gaining a newfound appreciation for North America’s only native marsupial. The opossum, …

Dec 2, 2025 · The word opossum is based on the Algonquian word apasum, meaning “white animal”—in reference to the Virginia opossum of North America. Some Australasian …

Aug 8, 2024 · Possums, on the other hand, live in Australia and other countries. Both possum and opossum correctly refer to the Virginia opossum frequently seen in North America as the “o” …

They are often misunderstood, but these animals play an important role in nature. In this article, we’ll explore where possums live around the world, where they are most commonly found, …

There are several dozen different species of opossum, which are often called possums in North America. The most notable is the Virginia opossum or common opossum—the only marsupial …

Opossums play a role in the ecosystem, consuming pests like insects, slugs, and snails. They are resistant to many diseases, including rabies, due to their lower body temperature, and also …

Nov 20, 2024 · The Virginia opossum, the only species in the United States and Canada, is often referred to as possums regionally. However, as Europeans migrated to Australia, they …

Aug 6, 2025 · Two wildlife experts share their best tips on how to get rid of possums, plus how to keep opossums away from your house and yard.

Opossums are small- to medium-sized, pouched (most of them) mammals, with pointed snouts and nearly hairless, prehensile tails. They are marsupials, like kangaroos and koalas.