Opossums (/ əˈpɒsəmz /) are members of the marsupial order Didelphimorphia (/ daɪˌdɛlfɪˈmɔːrfiə /) endemic to the Americas. The largest order of marsupials in the Western Hemisphere, it comprises 126 species in 18 genera.

They walk on all four legs, have long tails, and usually live fully or partially in trees. Possums vary in size, from positively tiny to the size of a large cat. The Tasmanian pygmy is the smallest species at just under 3 inches long.

Aug 18, 2022 · In this article, we’ll be learning about the 18 types of possum species spread around the world. Note: Possums are ranked in no particular order. 1. Woolly Possums. Scientific name (genus): Caluromys. There are three species of woolly possums: the bare-tailed woolly possum, the brown-eared woolly possum, and Derby’s woolly possum.

Jun 19, 2017 · According to stats reported by the National Wildlife Federation, a single possum can potentially eliminate 4,000 ticks in one week thanks to their extreme self-grooming methods (either crushing...

Feb 3, 2024 · Like most mammals, opossums have four legs, each of which is divided into three segments: the upper leg bone (femur), the lower leg bone (tibia and fibula), and the foot. In between the upper and lower leg bones, opossums have two distinct knee joints.

Feb 17, 2023 · The opossum has four short legs, but their hind feet have an opposable digit a bit like our thumb, which helps them to hold on when climbing trees. Their tail is also key to helping them to hold on when climbing as well as for baby opossums to hold on to their mom when she carries them on her back.

Diverse and broadly distributed opossums are North America's contribution to the marsupial family. The various types of opossums, from the classic Virginia variety to the semi-aquatic kind from Central America, reflect the adaptability of these creatures.

Jul 25, 2019 · This possum lives only in rocky outcrops and at night it climbs trees and shrubs to feed on flowers, fruit and leaves. With short legs and a stockier tail than most possums, it is adapted to life on the ground. It sleeps in family groups in well-protected rock crevices.

It can be coloured grey to dark grey and have red or orange-tinged legs and belly. The underneath of its often coiled tail is naked but furry on top. A female possum is called a “Jill,” a male one is called a “Jack,” while young ones are called …