Possums (also spelled opossums in North America) are marsupials, which means they carry and nurse their young in a pouch, much like kangaroos. There are many different species of possums, but the most common in the United States is the Virginia opossum. These animals are known for their ability to adapt to different environments, which is partly due to their flexible diet.
Possums are omnivores, meaning they eat both plants and animals. They are also opportunistic feeders. That means they will eat almost anything they come across that seems edible. This flexibility is what allows them to thrive in forests, suburbs, and even big cities.
2. What Do Possums Eat in the Wild?
In the wild, possums follow a natural diet that includes a wide variety of foods. They use their keen sense of smell to find meals during nighttime foraging trips.
Here’s a look at what possums typically eat in their natural habitat:
- Fruits and Berries: Possums love wild berries, persimmons, apples, and bananas.
- Insects: Beetles, grasshoppers, crickets, and other bugs are protein-rich favorites.
- Small Animals: Frogs, mice, snails, slugs, and even small snakes may be on the menu.
- Bird Eggs and Chicks: If they find a nest, they might eat the eggs or young birds.
- Leaves and Grasses: While not their favorite, possums will munch on foliage when food is scarce.
- Carrion (Dead Animals): They will scavenge from dead animals, which helps clean the ecosystem.
Their ability to eat both meat and plants means they rarely go hungry in the wild.
3. What Do Possums Eat in Urban Areas?
Urban environments bring a new set of opportunities for possums. In cities or near homes, possums often change their diet based on what’s available.
In these areas, possums may eat:
- Pet Food: Leftover dog or cat food left outside is irresistible to a hungry possum.
- Garbage: Possums will dig through trash cans to find food scraps.
- Compost: Fruit and vegetable scraps in compost piles are like a buffet.
- Garden Produce: Tomatoes, cucumbers, corn, and other crops can become late-night snacks.
- Birdseed: Possums may raid bird feeders or eat fallen seeds.
While some of these behaviors might cause problems for homeowners, they show how clever possums are when it comes to survival.
4. Foods Possums Love Most
Some foods are especially attractive to possums. If you want to attract (or avoid attracting) them, here are some of their top favorites:
- Overripe fruit (especially apples, bananas, and grapes)
- Peanut butter
- Marshmallows and sugary treats (though not healthy)
- Cooked chicken or beef scraps
- Insects and worms
- Pet kibble
Their strong sense of smell helps them detect these foods from a distance. This is why even a small food source can bring possums into your yard.
5. Do Possums Eat Ticks and Other Pests?
Yes, and this is where possums really shine.
Possums are natural pest controllers. Studies have shown that a single possum can eat up to 5,000 ticks in a single season. This helps reduce the spread of tick-borne diseases like Lyme disease.
In addition to ticks, possums eat:
- Cockroaches
- Slugs
- Snails
- Mice and rats
- Beetles
Because of this, many experts view possums as helpful wildlife, especially when it comes to natural pest management.
6. What Not to Feed Possums
If you see a possum and feel tempted to feed it, you should be careful. While possums can eat many things, not everything is good for them.
Avoid feeding possums the following:
- Processed human foods (especially salty or sugary snacks)
- Bread
- Chips and fries
- Chocolate
- Onions and garlic
- Dairy products (possums can’t digest lactose well)
- Raw meat (can spoil quickly and attract other animals)
Feeding possums unhealthy food can lead to sickness and make them dependent on humans. It’s best to let them find their natural food sources.
7. How Possums Help the Environment Through Their Diet
Possums aren’t just survivors—they’re helpers. Their diet makes them an important part of the ecosystem in several ways:
1. Pest Control
As mentioned earlier, their appetite for ticks, roaches, and rodents helps control pest populations naturally.
2. Waste Reduction
By eating roadkill and leftover food, possums help keep the environment clean and reduce waste.
3. Seed Spreading
When possums eat fruit, they often spread seeds through their droppings, helping new plants grow.
4. Balancing Ecosystems
Possums help balance the food chain by preying on smaller animals and being prey to larger ones, like owls and foxes.
8. How to Keep Possums Away From Your Home
While possums are generally harmless, you might not want them digging in your trash or living under your porch. If you’re wondering what do possums eat because you’re trying to deter them, here are some tips:
1. Secure Trash Cans
Use animal-proof lids or store bins in garages or sheds.
2. Remove Pet Food
Don’t leave dog or cat food outside overnight.
3. Clean Up Fruit Trees
Pick up fallen fruit from the ground.
4. Close Entry Points
Seal off crawlspaces, attics, or under decks where possums might try to nest.
5. Use Motion-Sensor Lights
Possums are nocturnal and prefer darkness. Lights can scare them away.
9. Final Thoughts
So, what do possums eat? Almost everything! From insects and fruit in the forest to leftovers and pet food in your backyard, possums are adaptable and resourceful creatures. Their diet not only helps them survive in many environments, but also benefits the ecosystem in several surprising ways.
Whether you find them cute or a nuisance, understanding their eating habits can help you make smarter choices about coexisting with them. Remember, the best approach is to respect wildlife and give them space—while making sure your home isn’t an open invitation to dinner.
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