03/13/2024
Possums are our friends!
Possums
1. Did you know that possums are native to Texas and play an essential role in the ecosystem by controlling insect populations and scavenging on carrion?
2. Possums have a unique defense mechanism called “playing possum,” where they feign death by becoming limp and emitting a foul odor, fooling predators into leaving them alone.
3. Possums are marsupials, meaning they carry their young in a pouch. They typically give birth to large litters of tiny, underdeveloped babies, which they nurse until they are old enough to venture out on their own.
4. Despite their somewhat intimidating appearance with sharp teeth and a rat-like tail, possums are generally shy and non-aggressive animals.
5. Possums are opportunistic omnivores, feeding on a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, insects, small animals, and even garbage.
6. Possums are excellent climbers and are often found in trees or dense vegetation, but they are also adept at foraging on the ground.
7. If you come across a possum in your yard or neighborhood, it’s best to leave it alone. They are beneficial animals and rarely carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans or pets.
8. If you encounter an injured or orphaned possum, contact your local wildlife center for assistance. They can provide care and rehabilitation to help the animal recover and return to the wild.
9. Creating habitat-friendly environments in your backyard, such as leaving brush piles and providing access to water, can attract possums and other wildlife, contributing to a healthy ecosystem.
10. Possums are protected under state wildlife laws in Texas, so it’s important to respect their presence and conserve their habitats for future generations to enjoy.
~Bailey C.