Would a possum attack you?

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Generally, no. Possums are typically docile creatures that prefer to avoid confrontation, opting to play dead rather than engage in aggressive behavior. Understanding their behavior is key to peacefully coexisting with these misunderstood marsupials.

Understanding Possum Behavior: A Key to Coexistence

Possums, also known as opossums (though ‘possum’ usually refers to the Virginia opossum in North America), are often misunderstood and unfairly feared. The question of “Would a possum attack you?” stems from this misunderstanding. To understand their behavior, we need to delve into their natural defenses and lifestyle.

Diet: Possums are opportunistic omnivores, consuming a wide variety of foods, including insects, rodents, fruits, and carrion. Their scavenging habits make them beneficial to ecosystems.
Nocturnal Nature: Possums are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night. This often leads to encounters with humans and pets under the cover of darkness, which can be startling.
Defensive Strategies: A possum’s primary defense mechanism is not aggression, but rather playing dead, also known as “playing possum.” When threatened, they will often feign death, emitting a foul odor and appearing lifeless. They may also hiss, growl, or bare their teeth as a bluff, but these are primarily warning signals.

The “Playing Possum” Phenomenon

The ‘playing possum’ act is a fascinating and effective survival strategy. When faced with a predator, the possum enters a catatonic state, mimicking the appearance and smell of a decaying corpse. This often deters predators, as many prefer to hunt live prey.

Physiological Changes: During this state, the possum’s heart rate slows down, and its breathing becomes shallow. They may also drool and release a foul-smelling substance from their anal glands.
Effectiveness: This strategy is remarkably effective, often fooling even experienced predators. The possum can remain in this state for several minutes to several hours, depending on the perceived threat.
Involuntary Response: It’s important to understand that playing possum is largely an involuntary response to extreme fear. The possum doesn’t consciously decide to do it; it’s a survival instinct triggered by a perceived threat.

When Might a Possum Seem Aggressive?

While possums are generally not aggressive, there are specific circumstances under which they might exhibit behavior that could be misinterpreted as aggression.

Cornered or Trapped: If a possum feels trapped or cornered, it may hiss, growl, or bare its teeth in an attempt to scare away the perceived threat. This is a defensive reaction, not an offensive attack.
Protecting Young: A mother possum with her young (called joeys) is more likely to exhibit defensive behavior if she perceives a threat to her offspring.
Illness or Injury: A sick or injured possum may be more likely to act defensively due to pain and vulnerability.
Food Competition: Although rare, if multiple possums are competing for a limited food source, some minor squabbling may occur. This is unlikely to involve humans.

Preventing Unwanted Encounters

The best way to avoid any potential conflict with possums is to take preventative measures around your home.

Secure Trash Cans: Keep trash cans tightly sealed to prevent possums from being attracted to food scraps.
Remove Food Sources: Clean up any spilled pet food or fallen fruit in your yard.
Seal Entry Points: Seal any potential entry points into your home, such as cracks in foundations or holes in siding.
Supervise Pets: Keep pets indoors at night or supervise them closely when they are outside.
Motion-Activated Lights: Install motion-activated lights to deter possums from entering your property.

Benefits of Having Possums Around

Despite their sometimes-unfavorable reputation, possums are actually beneficial to the environment.

Pest Control: They consume large quantities of insects, including ticks, cockroaches, and beetles.
Carrion Removal: They help clean up carrion (dead animals), preventing the spread of disease.
Seed Dispersal: They eat fruits and berries, helping to disperse seeds throughout the environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are possums dangerous to humans?

Generally, no. Possums are not inherently dangerous to humans and rarely attack. They are more likely to run away or play dead when threatened. While they can carry diseases, the risk of transmission to humans is low.

What should I do if I encounter a possum?

The best course of action is to leave the possum alone. Avoid approaching or cornering it. If it’s near your home, give it a clear escape route.

Can possums carry rabies?

While possums are mammals, they are remarkably resistant to rabies. Their low body temperature makes it difficult for the rabies virus to thrive. However, it is still possible, though very rare.

What if a possum is in my yard during the day?

Seeing a possum during the day doesn’t necessarily mean it’s sick or rabid. They may be simply searching for food or displaced from their normal habitat. However, if the possum appears disoriented or aggressive, contact animal control.

Will possums attack my pets?

Possums are generally not aggressive towards pets, especially larger dogs. Smaller pets, such as cats or small dogs, might be at risk if the possum feels threatened. It’s always best to supervise pets when they are outside, especially at night.

How do I get rid of a possum if it’s living under my house?

The best approach is exclusion. Make sure there’s only one exit point and place a one-way door over it. This allows the possum to leave but not return. After a few days, seal up the entrance. Call a professional wildlife removal service if you’re uncomfortable doing this yourself.

Do possums carry diseases?

Yes, possums can carry diseases, including leptospirosis, tuberculosis, and coccidiosis. However, the risk of transmission to humans is relatively low. Practice good hygiene and avoid direct contact with possums.

Are possums protected by law?

In some states and localities, possums may be protected by wildlife laws. Check with your local wildlife agency to determine the specific regulations in your area.

What does it mean when a possum bares its teeth?

When a possum bares its teeth, it’s usually a warning sign. It’s trying to scare you away and is feeling threatened. Back away slowly and give it space.

Are baby possums dangerous?

Baby possums (joeys) are not inherently dangerous, but they can bite or scratch if they feel threatened. Never handle a joey without proper protection.

What do possums eat?

Possums have a varied diet, including insects, rodents, fruits, vegetables, carrion, and even garbage. They are opportunistic omnivores and will eat whatever is available.

Should I feed possums in my yard?

It is not recommended to feed possums. Feeding them can attract them to your property and create dependency. It’s best to let them forage for their own food naturally. Keeping your yard clean of accessible food sources is the best approach.

Understanding possum behavior can help alleviate fears and promote peaceful coexistence. The answer to “Would a possum attack you?” is overwhelmingly no. With a little knowledge and preventative measures, humans and possums can share the same environment without conflict.