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Mammals of North America
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Opossum
Didelphis marsupialis (virginiana)
What's it sound like? Animal Sound 1
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Sound 3
Identification

Characterized by a gray body, white face, pink nose, bare pink tale, leather-like ears and large toes. They can climb trees and swim. Tail can leave mark in tracks. Plays dead when frightened. Tracks appear similar to raccoon but one tow on rear prints slant inwards. Highly variable habitats and diets.

Description
Opossums are the only wild marsupial found in North America. Opossums are omnivorous and commonly feed on carrion and have strong immune systems. They do no hibernate and are active year-round within range. Opossums have life spans of less than two years. Litters of up to 13 babies (joeys) travel to the pouch after a 12 day gestation where they remain for 60 days.
Adjective:didelphine
Family: Didelphidae
Latin Name: Didelphis marsupialis (virginiana)
Genus: Didelphis
Order: Didelphimorphia
Group:passel
Other Names: Possum, Virginia Opossum
Weight:0.3-6.5 kg
Total Length:350-1000 mm
Tail Length: 200-450 mm

Track Information

Hind Track

Front Track

Max Print Length (CM):7.5
Min Print Length (CM):7.5
Max Print Width (CM):8
Min Print Width (CM):3
Max Print Straddle (CM):
Min Print Straddle (CM):18
Print Size:Small/Medium
Print Type:Digitigrade
Track Notes:Track Notes: Nails may be present in tracks.

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Mammals of North America