At some point, you’ve probably wondered whether you’re using the correct word when referring to those nocturnal, white-faced creatures that hiss and scavenge in the night. Possum and opossum are often thought to be interchangeable terms, especially in North America.
They might seem like the same animal, but adding an “O” to the beginning of the word signifies a significant difference. In this article, I’ll examine the distinctions between possums and opossums and uncover the key differences that set these two creatures apart.
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Possums Vs. Opossums, What Are the Differences?
Opossum vs possum, you may be wondering if they are the same thing. As it turns out, these two words refer to completely different animals found in both North and South America.
These critters are cousins, they share similar names and the same classification of Infraclass Marsupialia. This means they are both marsupials, which are animals that birth live young that they nourish in pouches on their stomachs. You’re likely familiar with a kangaroo — the world’s most famous marsupial.
These critters are sometimes mistaken for raccoons, but they are different species. Raccoons have furry tails and are known for the black mask across their eyes. Possums also have furry tails, while opossums have bare tails. Both possums and opossums have sharp teeth and long snouts.
The name “opossum” is Powhatan, derived from an Algonquian Indian word. Based on where you live, using the word “possum” when you really mean “opossum” can get you some pretty strange looks.
Where Do Possums Live?
Possums are native to Australia. However, since the 1800s, these animals have been introduced to neighboring nations such as New Zealand, New Guinea, and even China. Ringtail possums are one of Australias most commonly found marsupials and have long prehensile tails.
These marsupials tend to thrive in wooded areas, but also prefer to build small rock dens if the terrain allows. They are very opportunistic and will take advantage of the benefits of the land around them, but always prefer to den in forests first and foremost.
What About Opossums?
There are over 100 species of opossums. Some include the Virginia opossum, white-eared opossum, and yellow-sided opossum. Opossums live on the North American continent, particularly on the mainland of the United States. There have been sightings of opossums as far north as Ontario, Canada, however, the extreme cold is a severely limiting factor in these animals’ migration.
The American marsupial is an opossum. These little guys are what many Americans call possums — without the “O”. They are the blacked-eyed, pointed-featured, rodent-type of animal that scurries out into the night with its babies on its back.
How To Tell Them Apart?
As mentioned above, both the Australian possum and the North American opossum are marsupials. Marsupials have an external pouch on their abdomens where they care for their newborn babies until they can fend for themselves.
This family tie — and the comparable namesake — are pretty much where the similarities stop for these two species.
The Australian possum has a round body shape and thick fur, which is often golden in color — giving it the nickname the Golden Brushtail Possum. Its eyes take on a peanut butter color in the light, and true to its moniker, its tail is thick and voluminous like that of a squirrel. These animals look more like cuddly cousins of the koala bear rather than distant relatives of the opossum.
The North American opossum, on the other hand, has stark features: black eyes, a white face, jagged teeth, and a sharp, pointed face. These creepy animals skulk around waving their rat tails in the air, hissing at those who dare to come too close. This species can be found ransacking trash piles when they’re not migrating from one makeshift den to another. As migrant scavengers, they feed on whatever they can find during their transient lifestyle.
Where Can You Find a Possum?
Possums are native to Australia. You would be hard-pressed to find an actual possum on the North American continent. These marsupials thrive in wooded areas but also build small rock dens if the environment allows. Possums are opportunistic and take advantage of the land around them but always prefer to den in forests.
Opossums can be found throughout the mainland United States. If you’re still unsure about the differences between possums and opossums, read on for more details.
Why Do People Confuse Opossum With Possum?
It’s not very clear why most Americans drop the “O” when referring to opossums, but it’s commonly accepted in the United States to call these animals both possums and opossums.
However, in Australia, there is no such thing as an opossum. An American on holiday might be surprised to learn that the adorable little animal in the tree shares the same name with the garbage-eaters they’ve come to know back in their home country.
Is One Species Smarter Than the Other?
In terms of raw intelligence, both Australian possums and North American opossums rank pretty low.
However, North American opossums have evolved to develop a behavioral trait that has worked to deter predators time and time again. Essentially, they enter a comatose state and play dead for a time — from two minutes to two hours. This has sparked the phrase “playing possum,” and keeps the animal safe from passing danger.
Australian possums, by contrast, will basically just walk right up to anyone. They’re a very trusting species, extremely friendly, with no problems whatsoever in becoming your new best friend. This naive behavior leads to their hunting by fur poachers and threatens them as a species.
Are Opossums More Dangerous Than Possums?
Australian Brushtail Possums — the adorable ones who aren’t afraid of humans — aren’t known to be carriers of diseases. They won’t bite or harm people, and have a natural and scientifically unexplained resistance to rabies.
Opossums, too, have this resistance in addition to other, more serious immunities. An opossum can consume a rattlesnake — one of the most dangerous snakes in the U.S.A. — and digest it effortlessly, treating it like any other meal. This demonstrates the opossum’s remarkable ability to handle venomous prey.
When picturing possums and opossums, many people think of disease-carrying vermin. But it’s much more accurate to picture these animals as mysteriously gifted animals with an unexplained sense of resilience.
The Bottom Line About These Two Animals
Possums and opossums share a common marsupial heritage but diverge significantly in appearance, behavior, and habitat. Possums evoke images of cuddly koala-like creatures thriving in Australian forests. Opossums present a stark contrast with their sharp features and adaptability to North American landscapes.
Recognizing these distinctions will help you easily identify these creatures whether you find yourself in the bushlands of Australia or the neighborhoods of America.
For expert help with your opossum problem, use the form below to connect with a local pest control professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are opossums agressive?
Opossums are not likely to attack and are typically not aggressive. They will run away and try to avoid a confrontation.
Is there a difference between a possum and opossum?
Yes. Possums are found in Australia and are koala-like creatures.
Opossums have sharp features and are found in North America.
Can opossums be pets?
State laws will determine whether you can have an opossum as a pet. Some states allow pet opossums with a permit.
What does the phrase "playing possum" mean?
The phrase means pretending to be asleep, injured, or vulnerable. It comes from the possums habit of faking its death to avoid predators.
