Ten fun facts about Possums

1. A Unique Australian Animal

Possums are medium-sized marsupials, typically weighing between 1.4 and 6.4 kilograms and measuring 65 to 95 centimeters in length. They are found throughout Australia, New Zealand, and parts of Indonesia, and are known for their thick fur, long tails, and distinctive pointed ears. Possums are nocturnal animals, and they are omnivorous, eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, and insects.

Also → Quolls: The Savage Predator

2. Possums are incredibly versatile and adaptable creatures

Possums are incredibly versatile and adaptable creatures, able to swim and climb with ease. Their sharp claws, tails and mouths make them excellent climbers, allowing them to scale trees and make their homes in holes in the trunks. Not only do they use their claws and tails to climb, but they also use their mouths to grip onto branches and bark, making them incredibly agile and able to traverse the treetops with ease.

Also → Emus are fascinating creatures that feed on a variety of items

3. Nocturnal, solitary animals that are constantly on the move

Possums are nocturnal, solitary animals that are constantly on the move. They are nomadic by nature, and will often search for abandoned burrows to use as temporary shelter. Possums are well-adapted to their nocturnal lifestyle, with large eyes and ears that help them to see and hear in the dark. They are also excellent climbers, and can often be seen scaling trees and other structures in search of food.

Also → Koalas are fascinating creatures with sharp teeth and claws

4. Omnivorous Possums Eat a Variety of Items to Survive

Possums are omnivorous creatures, with a diet that consists of a variety of items. They feed mainly on leaves, bark, fungi, ferns, fruits, buds and flowers, but they also enjoy snacking on land snails, carrion, native birds, invertebrates and eggs. This wide range of food sources allows them to thrive in a variety of habitats, making them a common sight in many parts of the world.

Also → Vultures: The Magnificent Birds with an Impressive Lifespan

5. 50 Teeth and a Special Dental Structure Make Possums Unique Mammals

Possums are unique among mammals in that they have an impressive 50 teeth, more than any other mammal. This impressive dental arsenal allows them to feed on a wide variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, insects, and even small animals. Possums also have a specialized dental structure that allows them to grind their food into smaller pieces, making it easier to digest. With their impressive set of teeth, possums are able to survive in a variety of habitats, from forests to urban areas.

Also → Bears have an incredibly sharp sense of smell

6. Possums Have a Short Life Span, but They're prolific Breeders

Possums have a relatively short life span of 2 to 4 years, and during that time they can produce up to two litters of babies each year. The gestation period for possums is only 12 to 14 days, and the babies develop in the pouch of their mother until they are ready to emerge.

Also → Meerkats: The Omnivorous Creatures

7. Possums Make Smacking Sounds to Attract Each Other

Possums are fascinating creatures, and their communication is no exception. To attract each other, they make smacking noises, while baby possums have a more unique way of expressing distress or danger - they sneeze and hiss. This is a fascinating behavior that helps them stay safe and connected in their environment.

Also → The Rat's Sense of Smell

8. Resilient Possums Enjoy a Long Life

Possums are incredibly resilient creatures, boasting an impressive resistance to diseases such as rabies. This is due to their low body temperature and highly efficient immune system, which helps to protect them from a variety of illnesses. This makes them a unique species, as they are able to survive in a variety of environments and conditions.

Also → Lemurs use their noses to communicate

9. The Sensitive Smell of the Possum

Possums have a poor sense of sight and hearing, but their sense of smell is incredibly sharp. This is an adaptation that helps them to find food, detect predators, and even communicate with other possums. Possums have a heightened sense of smell that is far more sensitive than that of humans, allowing them to detect scents from up to a mile away. This keen sense of smell is also used to identify potential mates and to mark their territory.

Also → Snails' Sense of Touch and Smell Lead the Way!

10. Possums Remain Motionless for 6 Hours When Threatened

When threatened, possums have an incredible ability to remain motionless for up to 6 hours. They will often lie on their sides with their eyes either closed or fixed in one direction. This behavior can last anywhere from 1 minute to 6 hours, depending on the situation. This is an incredible adaptation that allows possums to remain safe from predators in times of danger.

Also → How Wolves' Smell Is 100 Times Better Than Humans