Opossums
(Didelphimorphia)
Didelphimorphs, the opossums, are a diverse group of marsupials, including only one family but over 60 species. Most occupy Central and South America, but one species, Didelphis virginiana, occurs through most of the continental United States, including across Alabama and in Harmon Park.
Opossum
(Didelphis virginiana)
Observed in the Park
The opossum, or just 'possum,' is North America’s only marsupial. It is also one of the oldest mammals on Earth, evolving some 65 million years ago. About the size of a house cat, the grayish-white-furred possum has a triangular head and long pointed nose and a prehensile
tail adapted for grasping and wrapping around things like tree limbs, from which it can hang for a short time (not long enough to sleep, however). It also has an opposable thumb-like hallux on each rear foot. The hallux helps it grasp branches when it climbs. It's hairless ears, toes, and nose are susceptible to frostbite, so, while it does not hibernate, the possum does often hole up during very cold weather. The omnivorous possum is nocturnal and uses its keen sense of smell to locate food, which can be just about anything including plants, fruits, insects, small animals, garbage and carrion (carcasses). An opportunistic feeder, possums are often drawn to roadkill (carrion) and are frequently killed by cars.