What Is The Difference Between A Possum And An Opossum?

Possums are mainly found in Australia and other countries too. Opossums are other animals that are mainly found in North and South America. They are scavengers that feed on dead animals. Possums can enter your house in search of food and shelter. Possums are large pests that can grow up to 30 to 40 inches in size. Both possums and opossums are ancient creatures. They were discovered in the early 17th century. Possums eat a lot of things including fruits and vegetables and many things. Many people often get this question in their mind about what is the difference between a possum and an opossum. They are different from each other. To know in detail about the differences between a possum and an opossum, read the blog carefully. 

Differences Between Possums And Opossums

• Native- Possums are mainly located in Australia, New Zealand and China whereas opossums live in America and Southern Canada. This is one of the most common differences you will find between possums and opossums. Possums often build their dens in forests, wood and rocks. One similarity is that both animals are marsupials. 
• Tail- Possums and opossums have different tails. This is one of the key differences between a possum and an opossum. Possum’s tail is thick and furry which is more like a squirrel’s tail. The tail of an opossum is hairless. It is recognised for its bare tail. This creature more closely resembles a big rat than a fluffier possum. 
• Size- Size is also another difference that could be seen between a possum and an opossum. The opossums are larger than the possums in size. Possums can weigh more than 20 pounds whereas opossums are more uniform in size. They weigh between 8 to 13 pounds depending on the species. They have a length of 2.5 feet from nose to tail, larger than the most common brushtail possum. 
• Body Hair And Shape- Opossums usually have pointed white faces and coarse fur whereas possums have round bodies with thick golden or brown coats. Opossums have black eyes and jagged teeth. They have dark grey body fur, some may have cinnamon or white colour. Possums usually have large brown eyes. 
• Acting Against Predators- This is also one of the most common differences you will find between a possum and an opossum. Usually, when the opossums see a predator, they have the ability to play dead which helps them to prevent the attack of predators. When it comes to possums they are not known for playing dead. They usually run away whenever they see a predator. Sometimes, they can play dead for 4 hours.
• Pronunciation- This is also one of the differences between a possum and an opossum. Both creatures are spelled differently. Most people often get confused by the name of these creatures. This is one of the most common misconceptions among people about the pronunciation of possums and opossums. 

Get Professional Help And Keep Possums Away Without Any Danger

Whether it is a possum or an opossum, you must hire a professional possum catcher company to get rid of them. Professional pest control service providers have all kinds of experience required to get rid of the possums and opossums from your house. You can hire the best professionals at 711 Possum Removal Canberra to get top-class possum control services in Canberra. They have a team of top-quality experts that are well-equipped with the best tools for removing possums and other pests. They offer the best pest control services at pocket-friendly prices. You must give them a call now 02 6188 7105 to get your service booked today.