How to Distinguish Between an Injured Possum and One Playing Dead
Determining how to tell if a possum is injured or playing dead is crucial for providing appropriate assistance: while playing possum is a natural defense mechanism, an injured animal requires immediate intervention. Here’s how to differentiate between these two scenarios.
Understanding the Possum’s “Playing Dead” Behavior
The Virginia opossum, often simply called a possum, is North America’s only marsupial. They are known for their opportunistic diet and their remarkable ability to feign death, a defense mechanism called thanatosis. This involuntary response is triggered by extreme fear or stress. When a possum “plays dead,” it collapses, becomes stiff, and may even drool or emit a foul-smelling fluid from its anal glands, mimicking the scent of decay. This charade often deters predators who prefer live prey.
Identifying the Signs of an Injured Possum
How do you tell if a possum is injured or playing dead? While playing dead is a natural behavior, recognizing the signs of injury is critical. Observing the possum’s overall condition and behavior will help determine the appropriate course of action.
- Visible Injuries: Look for obvious signs of trauma such as bleeding, open wounds, broken limbs, or difficulty moving.
- Unnatural Posture: A possum lying in an unnatural position, like on its side with its limbs twisted, may be injured rather than playing dead.
- Lack of Responsiveness: While a possum playing dead may be unresponsive to gentle stimuli, an injured possum may be completely unresponsive, even to pain.
- Eye Condition: Check the possum’s eyes. If they are cloudy, glazed over, or appear damaged, it could indicate an injury or illness.
- Prolonged Immobility: Possums playing dead usually recover within a few minutes to a few hours. If a possum remains motionless for an extended period, it’s more likely to be injured.
- Location: A possum lying in a dangerous location (e.g., the middle of a road) is likely injured, as a healthy possum would move to safety after “reviving.”
Comparing Key Indicators: Playing Dead vs. Injury
The table below summarizes the key differences between a possum playing dead and an injured possum.
| Feature | Playing Dead | Injured |
|---|---|---|
| —————— | ——————————————— | ——————————————— |
| Responsiveness | Briefly unresponsive, may twitch slightly | Completely unresponsive or in severe distress |
| Body Position | May appear stiff, but generally normal posture | Unnatural or contorted posture |
| Visible Injuries | None | May have visible wounds, bleeding, or broken bones |
| Eye Condition | Normal | Cloudy, glazed over, or damaged |
| Recovery Time | Minutes to hours | Prolonged immobility |
| Location | Relatively safe location | Potentially dangerous location |
Approaching a Possum Safely
Whether you suspect the possum is injured or simply playing dead, approach with caution. Possums, even when injured, may bite or scratch if they feel threatened.
- Maintain a Safe Distance: Observe the possum from a distance initially.
- Use Protection: If you must approach, wear gloves to protect yourself from potential diseases or parasites.
- Avoid Direct Contact: Use a shovel or a blanket to gently move the possum if necessary.
- Contact Professionals: If you suspect the possum is injured, contact your local animal control, wildlife rehabilitation center, or a veterinarian specializing in wildlife.
Seeking Professional Help
If you determine the possum is likely injured, prompt professional intervention is essential. Attempting to treat the possum yourself could worsen its condition or expose you to potential risks. Wildlife rehabilitators are trained to provide specialized care and can release the animal back into the wild once it has recovered.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long can a possum play dead?
A possum can remain in the thanatosis state for a variable amount of time, ranging from a few minutes to several hours. The duration depends on the level of stress and the perceived threat. If left undisturbed, the possum will eventually “revive” and move on.
Is it cruel to poke a possum to see if it’s alive?
While it might seem like a way to check, poking a possum can cause further stress and potential harm. Instead, observe from a distance for signs of breathing or slight movements. If unsure, contact a wildlife professional rather than interfering directly.
What does it mean if a possum is twitching while playing dead?
Slight twitching or involuntary muscle spasms are common when a possum is playing dead. This is part of the involuntary physiological response and doesn’t necessarily indicate injury.
Can a baby possum play dead?
Yes, even young possums, called joeys, can exhibit the thanatosis response. However, they are more vulnerable and require immediate assistance if found orphaned or injured. Contact a wildlife rehabilitator if you find a joey alone.
How do you tell the difference between a sick possum and one playing dead?
A sick possum might exhibit additional symptoms like labored breathing, discharge from the eyes or nose, or a noticeable loss of coordination. If these signs are present in addition to immobility, it’s likely a sick animal needing help.
What should I do if a possum is playing dead in my yard?
If the possum is in a safe location, the best course of action is to leave it undisturbed. Keep pets and children away from the area. The possum will likely move on once it feels safe.
Is it safe to touch a possum?
No, it’s generally not safe to touch a possum. While they may appear docile, they can bite or scratch if they feel threatened. They can also carry diseases and parasites. Always wear gloves if you must handle a possum.
What diseases can possums carry?
Possums can carry a variety of diseases and parasites, including leptospirosis, rabies (rarely), and fleas. While the risk of transmission is low, it’s essential to exercise caution and avoid direct contact.
If I find an injured possum, what’s the first thing I should do?
The first step is to assess the situation from a distance. Note any visible injuries or signs of distress. Then, contact your local animal control or a wildlife rehabilitation center for guidance.
Can a possum playing dead be mistaken for rabies?
While possums are remarkably resistant to rabies, it’s crucial to err on the side of caution. If a possum is behaving erratically, foaming at the mouth, or exhibiting other unusual symptoms, contact animal control immediately. Do not attempt to handle the animal.
What is the best way to help a possum?
The best way to help a possum is to provide a safe environment and avoid disturbing them. If you suspect an injury, contact a wildlife professional for guidance and assistance.
How do you tell if a possum is injured or playing dead? can be difficult without careful observation. Remembering to prioritize visible injuries, assessing responsiveness, and considering the overall context is important. When in doubt, always seek professional help from wildlife experts.