The Opossum is a mammal about the size of a house cat. It has moderately long fur with color that ranges from white to dark gray and is frequently darker on the legs and lighter on the back. It’s face is long and pointed with dark, rounded, paper-thin, hairless ears.
Opossums are the only marsupials (pouched mammals) in North America. Except for females with young, opossums are solitary animals. They are omnivores and eat a wide variety of food including fruits, vegetables, nuts, meat, eggs, insects, pet food and garbage.
These animals are found in many different habitats from woodlands to highly developed residential areas. In urban areas they have been found living in attics, garages, chimneys, wood piles, under houses or decks, or any place that offers protection. Although they’re very common in urban areas, opossums are not often seen due to their nocturnal habits.
Damage
Opossums can damage buildings by pushing in screened vents and window screens, scattering insulation, and chewing electrical wiring. They frequently get into garbage and may injure pets or expose them to disease in disputes over pet food. Opossums also prey on wild birds and baby rattlesnakes.
Problem Prevention
Opossums, like many wild animals are attracted to suburban areas due to easy access to food, water and shelter. Due to the amount of new construction in our area the habitat of many different species of wildlife are showing up in the city limits.
See Helpful Hints on the Wildlife page.
Laws and Regulations
Opossums are not native to California. It’s a violation of California law for any wildlife to be kept as pets. Only authorized wildlife rehabilitators may keep injured or orphaned wildlife and then only for limited periods of time. California Fish and Wildlife Regulations prohibit the relocation of opossums and other wildlife without written permission of the Department. For further information on the legal status of opossums and other wildlife, contact your California Department of Fish and Wildlife Regional Office.