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Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana)
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Description: The Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana), commonly known as the North American opossum or Tlacuache in Mexico, is the only marsupial found in North America north of Mexico. A solitary & nocturnal animal about the size of a domestic cat & thus the largest opossum, it is a successful opportunist. It is familiar to many North Americans as it is often seen near towns, rummaging through garbage cans. Virginia opossums measure 13 - 37 in (35 - 94 cm) long from their snout to the base of the tail, with the tail adding another 8.5 - 19 in (21.647 cm). Weight for males ranges from 1.7 - 14 lb (0.8 - 6.4 kg) & for females from 11 oz - 8.2 lb (0.3 - 3.7 kg). Their coats are a dull grayish brown, other than on their faces, which are white. Opossums have long, hairless, prehensile tails, which can be used to grab branches & carry small objects. They also have hairless ears & a long, flat nose. Opossums have 50 teeth, the most out of any North American mammal & opposable, clawless thumbs on their rear limbs. Opossums have 13 nipples, arranged in a circle of 12 with 1 in the middle. The Virginia opossum is noted for reacting to threats by feigning death. This is the genesis of the term playing possum, which means pretending to be dead or injured with intent to deceive. In the case of the opossum, the reaction seems to be involuntary & to be triggered by extreme fear. It should not be taken as an indication of docility, for under serious threat, an opossum will respond ferociously, hissing, screeching, & showing its teeth. But with enough stimulation, the opossum will enter a near coma, which can last up to 4 hours. The Virginia opossum does not hibernate, although it may remain sheltered during cold spells. Opossums are omnivorous & eat a wide range of plants & animals, such as fruits, insects & other small animals. Persimmons are one of the opossums favorite foods during the autumn.
Uploaded By: femcat38
Date: 10/19/2011
Views: 499
