Possum

Possums are small to medium-sized arboreal marsupials native to Australia, New Guinea, and parts of Indonesia, with some species introduced elsewhere such as New Zealand.

Possums are small to medium-sized arboreal marsupials native to Australia, New Guinea, and parts of Indonesia. In North America, the term is often used informally for the Virginia opossum, but true possums are a distinct group.

What it is

True possums belong to the suborder Phalangeriformes, within the order Diprotodontia. They are marsupials, meaning females carry and nurse their young in a pouch. They are native to Australia, New Guinea, and Sulawesi, and some species have been introduced to New Zealand. They are typically nocturnal and arboreal, with long tails and soft fur, and many have prehensile tails adapted for climbing.

Key details

Possums are omnivores, though many species are mainly herbivorous, eating leaves, fruit, and flowers. They are generally shy and not dangerous to humans, though they may bite if cornered. Their lower body temperature makes them less susceptible to rabies than many other mammals. Lifespan varies by species, but many live only a few years in the wild.

Name confusion with opossums

In North America, "possum" is commonly used for the Virginia opossum, but that animal is technically an opossum (order Didelphimorphia). True possums and opossums are separate groups that only resemble each other superficially. Possums are not native to Canada, but Canadian readers may encounter the informal usage.