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Opossum
(Didelphis virginiana)
Photographer: Alfred Gardner
Seasons in Walnut Creek: Year-round resident
Key Field Marks:
- Adult possum is the size of a house cat
- Length 24 to 33 inches when full grown
- Adults weigh from 6 to 15 pounds
Key Behaviors:
- May eat insects, dead animals, birds and their eggs, frogs, snails and earthworms
- Breeding season begins in early February
- Most females have one litter per year, but some have two
- Will wander and switch homes frequently
Habit and Range:
- Does not hibernate; stays in den during extremely cold weather
- Often will climb trees when chased
Walnut Creek Sighting: Tracks found under State Street Bridge on a cool day in early February.
