Opossum

An opossum is a medium-sized, nocturnal marsupial native to the Americas. It's characterized by its prehensile tail, which aids in climbing and carrying objects, a pointed snout, and small, rounded ears. They have a relatively weak bite and are known for their “playing possum” defense mechanism, where they feign death when threatened. They are omnivores, consuming a diverse diet of insects, fruits, nuts, carrion, and small animals. They are adaptable animals, often found in various habitats, including forests, grasslands, and even suburban areas. Opossums play a significant role in their ecosystems by controlling populations of pests and consuming decaying matter.

Opossum meaning with examples

• The children were thrilled to spot an opossum scurrying across their backyard at dusk. Its prehensile tail was clearly visible as it climbed a low-hanging branch, searching for some fruit to eat. The family researched how to care for it, even though it was a feral animal, learning about its natural diet and behavior. They appreciated that it played a vital role in maintaining the balance of their local ecosystem, and was a benefit to their garden.
• The dog walker let the dogs off-leash to run in the open field at dawn, until a very slow moving opossum waddled across the path. The animals became very still, unsure how to react to the creature. One of the dogs playfully nudged it and the opossum immediately assumed its defensive position, which gave the owner time to retrieve the animals and move them to another path, keeping everyone safe from harm.
• The wildlife rehabilitator carefully examined the injured opossum, noting the size and shape of its ears and the length of its tail to assess its overall health. After some examination, he found that the marsupial, which came from a rural part of the state, would need specialized care for its broken leg. The opossum, a survivor of a car accident, was kept in captivity, to monitor its recovery, and will eventually be returned to its wild habitat.
• A camera captured the opossum, scurrying along the roof of a house, utilizing its prehensile tail to maintain its balance. It was obvious that its ability to grip objects, and its agility, made it a proficient climber. The night vision caught the animal at its best, as it sought out food, in its natural environment. They are very interesting animals, well equipped for survival in a variety of conditions.