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Jan 27, 2023 · What's the difference between a possum and an opossum? While they have similar names, possums and opossums are distinct animals. Here are seven key differences between these marsupials.
Oct 8, 2023 · Possums and opossums are different animals! The opossum is the only marsupial native to North America, while the possum is a marsupial that resides in Australia. These two animals look pretty similar. But, in terms of their tail and coat, possums are furrier and softer than opossums.
Both possum and opossum correctly refer to the Virginia opossum frequently seen in North America. In common use, possum is the usual term; in technical or scientific contexts opossum is preferred. Opossum can be pronounced with its first syllable either voiced play or silent play .
Feb 19, 2024 · A big visual difference between possums and opossums is their tail. Both tails are long, but the possum’s tail is thick and furry, like a squirrel’s tail. An opossum’s tail is thin and free of hair, almost like a rat’s tail. An opossum’s tail is a little shorter than that of a possum.
Jul 16, 2019 · While both possums and opossums are marsupials, they are, technically and scientifically, two very different animals. The opossum is a mammal belonging to the family of marsupials located in North America. Possums, on the other hand, are marsupials of Australian origin.
Jan 11, 2023 · Though possums and opossums have a lot in common—including the fact that they’re nocturnal, omnivorous, tree-dwelling marsupials that are known to play dead, or “play possum,” when...
Jan 13, 2011 · Quick summary. The word opossum refers to many different species of marsupials native to North and South America. The word possum has been used to refer to a number of species of marsupials native to Australia and nearby islands. The word possum is also often used informally to refer to an opossum.
Jul 20, 2023 · We will explore everything you want to know about how these animals are different. Key facts: Although the names sound similar, possums and opossums are two different animals. Both possums and opossums are marsupials. Possums live in Australia. Opossums live in North and South America.
Sep 16, 2022 · What are opossums and possums? Both animals are marsupials, however possums are more closely related to kangaroos. But here’s where it gets confusing: in North America, people often shorten opossum to possum when talking about the creatures prowling around the backyard at night.
Possums have a wider variety of appearances, while opossums have a more uniform look. Both are omnivores, but possums are less likely to play dead than opossums. Possums are related to kangaroos, while opossums are the only marsupial native to North America.
