Opossums in Oklahoma
Behavior, Habitat, Seasonal Activity & Coexistence Guide
Opossums—often called “possums”—are one of the most misunderstood mammals in Oklahoma. Found in urban neighborhoods, wooded creek corridors, farmland edges, and suburban developments across the state, opossums play an important but often overlooked role in local ecosystems.
Fun Facts About Opossums
- Opossums are North America’s only native marsupial
- They have 50 teeth, more than any other North American land mammal
- Their famous “playing dead” response is involuntary, not a trick
- Opossums consume large numbers of ticks and insects
- Their natural body temperature makes rabies extremely rare
- Most opossums live only 2–4 years in the wild
Opossum Species in Oklahoma
Oklahoma is home to one native opossum species:
Virginia Opossum (Didelphis virginiana)
- Appearance: Gray to white coarse fur, pointed snout, black eyes, hairless prehensile tail
- Size: 4–14 pounds on average
- Distinctive traits: Excellent climbers, opposable thumbs on rear feet
Where Opossums Live in Oklahoma
Opossums are highly adaptable and can be found throughout Oklahoma in:
- Wooded creek corridors and floodplains
- Tree lines and shelterbelts
- Urban neighborhoods with mature trees
- Suburban drainage systems and greenbelts
- Farms, barns, and rural outbuildings
They do not dig extensive burrows and instead rely on natural or man-made shelter.
Opossum Behavior & Daily Activity
Opossums are primarily nocturnal and solitary. Common behaviors include:
- Slow, deliberate movement
- Opportunistic foraging
- Temporary denning (they move often)
- Defensive bluffing rather than aggression
When threatened, opossums may hiss, bare teeth, or enter a stress response known as thanatosis, commonly referred to as “playing dead.”
What Opossums Eat
Opossums are omnivorous scavengers and natural cleaners. Their diet includes:
- Insects and beetles
- Ticks and other parasites
- Carrion (roadkill)
- Fallen fruit
- Pet food left outdoors
- Small vertebrates and eggs
This feeding behavior helps reduce insect populations and remove decaying material from the environment.
Opossum Babies & Breeding in Oklahoma
Opossums have one of the shortest gestation periods of any mammal:
- Breeding season: Late winter through summer
- Gestation: Approximately 12–13 days
- Litter size: Often 6–20 newborns
Only a portion survive to reach the pouch. As they grow, young opossums ride on the mother’s back before dispersing in late spring and summer.
Seasonal Activity Patterns
Winter: Reduced activity; shelter-seeking during extreme cold
Spring: Breeding season; increased sightings near structures
Summer: Juvenile dispersal; higher visibility
Fall: Increased foraging before colder weather
Opossums Around Homes
Opossums are commonly seen near homes due to:
- Open crawlspaces or foundation gaps
- Fallen fruit from trees
- Outdoor pet food
- Compost piles
- Accessible water sources
They rarely cause structural damage and typically move on once food or shelter is no longer available.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are opossums dangerous?
Opossums are non-aggressive and prefer to avoid people.
Do opossums carry rabies?
Rabies in opossums is extremely rare.
What if I see a baby opossum alone?
If it is furred and walking, it is likely independent. Very small, hairless babies should be left undisturbed unless injured.
Do opossums damage homes?
They may temporarily shelter under structures but cause minimal damage compared to other wildlife.
Wildlife Resources & Further Reading
- Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation (ODWC)
https://www.wildlifedepartment.com - OSU Extension – Living With Wildlife
https://extension.okstate.edu
Related Oklahoma Wildlife & Insects
To better understand how opossums fit into Oklahoma’s ecosystem, explore:
- Raccoons in Oklahoma – Larger mammals with stronger denning behavior
- Termites in Oklahoma – Insects that affect structures and attract wildlife
- Ants in Oklahoma – A major food source for many small mammals
About the Author
Brad McKey is the founder and editor of this wildlife education site. He has spent over a decade working around residential structures, property environments, and wildlife-related issues across Oklahoma. His work focuses on helping homeowners understand wildlife behavior, regional environmental patterns, and responsible approaches to wildlife awareness and property protection.