How to Tell If a Possum is Playing Dead or Really Dead: A Definitive Guide
Knowing how to tell if a possum is playing dead or really dead can be crucial for the animal’s safety and yours; this guide offers key signs to look for, emphasizing observation of breathing, eye response, and body stiffness. Careful observation is paramount in determining the true state of the animal.
Understanding the Possum’s “Playing Dead” Defense
The Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana) is famous for its dramatic defense mechanism: playing dead, also known as thanatosis. This isn’t a conscious choice, but rather an involuntary response to extreme fear or stress. When threatened, a possum may go limp, open its mouth, drool, and even emit a foul-smelling fluid from its anal glands, mimicking the scent of decay. This charade often deters predators who prefer fresh kill. But how do you tell if a possum is playing dead or really dead when faced with this convincing act?
Key Indicators: Life vs. Death
Distinguishing between a possum in a thanatotic state and one that has genuinely passed away requires a careful assessment of several key indicators:
- Breathing: Look closely for any signs of respiration. Even shallow, infrequent breaths are a sign of life. Watch the chest and abdomen for subtle movements.
- Eye Response: Gently touch the possum’s eye. A live possum, even one playing dead, will usually exhibit some twitch or flinch. A truly dead possum will have no response.
- Body Temperature: If possible, carefully touch the possum’s body. A living possum, even in a thanatotic state, will retain some body heat. A cold body is a strong indicator of death.
- Body Rigidity (Rigor Mortis): Rigor mortis, the stiffening of muscles after death, typically sets in within a few hours. If the possum is stiff and unyielding, it is likely deceased. Note, however, that rigor mortis eventually passes.
- Odor: While a playing dead possum can emit a foul odor, the smell of decomposition is markedly different and signals death. This is a reliable, albeit unpleasant, indicator.
Observation Techniques and Safety Precautions
When approaching a potentially injured or distressed possum, your safety and the animal’s welfare should be the top priorities.
- Maintain a Safe Distance: Observe from a distance initially to avoid startling the possum further. Sudden movements or loud noises can prolong the thanatosis response.
- Use Tools for Examination: If you must physically examine the possum (to check temperature, for example), use gloves or a stick to avoid direct contact. Possums can carry diseases and may bite if they perceive a threat, even while in a thanatotic state.
- Give it Time: The thanatosis response can last anywhere from a few minutes to several hours. Be patient and continue to observe the possum for signs of life.
- Avoid Provocation: Do not poke, prod, or otherwise harass the possum in an attempt to elicit a reaction. This is inhumane and can further stress the animal.
- Contact Professionals: If you are unsure of the possum’s condition or if it appears injured, contact your local animal control, wildlife rescue organization, or a veterinarian. These professionals are trained to handle wildlife safely and humanely.
Comparing Live Possum (Playing Dead) vs. Dead Possum
Here’s a table summarizing the key differences:
| Feature | Live Possum (Playing Dead) | Dead Possum |
|---|---|---|
| —————— | ——————————————————– | —————————————————— |
| Breathing | May be shallow and infrequent, but present | Absent |
| Eye Response | May exhibit a twitch or flinch when touched | No response |
| Body Temperature | Warm | Cold |
| Body Rigidity | Limp (initially); no rigor mortis | May be stiff (rigor mortis) or limp (later stages) |
| Odor | Foul odor from anal glands (but not decomposition) | Odor of decomposition |
| Overall Appearance | May appear lifeless, but with subtle signs of life | Appearance of death (e.g., discoloration, bloating) |
Importance of Knowing the Difference
Knowing how do you tell if a possum is playing dead or really dead is important for several reasons:
- Animal Welfare: If the possum is alive but injured, it needs medical attention. Mistaking it for dead could result in it suffering needlessly.
- Public Safety: A dead animal poses a health hazard. Prompt removal is necessary to prevent the spread of disease and to avoid attracting scavengers.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing the possum’s true state provides closure and prevents unnecessary worry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long can a possum play dead?
A possum can play dead for varying lengths of time, ranging from a few minutes to several hours. The duration of the thanatosis response depends on the level of stress and the perceived threat. Observation over a period of time is crucial.
What is thanatosis?
Thanatosis is the involuntary act of playing dead. It’s a defense mechanism employed by the opossum in response to extreme fear or stress. It involves going limp, drooling, and emitting a foul odor to deter predators.
Is playing dead a conscious decision for a possum?
No, playing dead is not a conscious decision. It’s an involuntary physiological response triggered by the possum’s nervous system in the face of perceived danger.
Can a possum bite while playing dead?
While rare, it is possible for a possum to bite while in a thanatotic state, especially if it perceives a sudden or direct threat. Exercise caution and avoid direct contact.
What should I do if I find a possum that appears injured?
If you find a possum that appears injured, contact your local animal control, wildlife rescue organization, or a veterinarian. These professionals are equipped to handle wildlife safely and provide appropriate medical care.
Is it safe to handle a possum?
It is generally not safe to handle a possum. They can carry diseases and may bite or scratch if they feel threatened. Always prioritize your safety and contact professionals if assistance is needed.
What diseases can possums carry?
Possums can carry a variety of diseases, including leptospirosis, tuberculosis, coccidiosis, and rabies (though rabies is rare). They can also carry fleas and ticks.
Are possums dangerous to humans?
Possums are generally not aggressive towards humans and will typically avoid confrontation. However, they may bite or scratch if they feel threatened or cornered.
What is the best way to deter possums from my property?
The best ways to deter possums from your property include securing garbage cans, removing pet food, trimming tree branches, and sealing off entry points to your home.
Do possums eat garbage?
Yes, possums are opportunistic omnivores and will eat garbage if it is readily available. Securing garbage cans is essential to prevent them from becoming a nuisance.
How do possums help the environment?
Possums are beneficial to the environment because they consume insects, rodents, and carrion. They also help control tick populations, playing a role in disease prevention.
How do you tell if a baby possum is orphaned?
If you find a baby possum that is alone, injured, or appears weak and disoriented, it may be orphaned. Contact a wildlife rehabilitator immediately. Handling baby possums yourself is strongly discouraged. This is a critical application of knowing how do you tell if a possum is playing dead or really dead, since a mother might temporarily abandon offspring when playing dead.