Virginia opossum
species of mammal
The Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana) is the only species of North American marsupial. It is sometimes called a possum, but that refers more correctly to a group of Australian marsupials.
| Virginia opossum | |
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| Didelphis virginiana | |
Description
changeAn opossum is about the size of a house cat. It has grizzled white and gray fur. Adult opossums weigh about 2-6 kg (4-14 lbs). They live alone, are active at night, and they are good climbers.
Habitat
changePeople can find this opossum in the eastern United States, and along the west coast from British Columbia and to Baja California. They like to live in forests, brushy areas, and farmland.
References
change- ↑ Cuarón A.D.; et al. (2008). "Didelphis virginiana". IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2008. International Union for Conservation of Nature. Retrieved 28 December 2008. Database entry includes justification for why this species is of least concern
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