The Virginia opossum is confused often as a large rat due to its hairless sears and tail. Virginia opossums are not related to rats and other rodents. They are actually marsupials. Marsupials are animals that have a pouch that they use to carry their young. The Virginia opossum is North America's only native marsupial.
Fast Facts
- Virginia opossum has the most number of teeth (50) of all North America's land mammals.
- Neonate, baby, Virginia opossums are the size of a jelly bean when they are born.
- Virginia opossums help control tick populations and help clean up carrion, dead animals.
|
Scientific name |
Didelphis virginiana |
| Range | North America |
| Conservation status | Least Concerned |
| Diet | Omnivore |
| Zoo name(s) | Gumbo |
| Zoo location | Off Exhibit |
