Transpex

Opossum Vs Possum is a debate that has been rehashed and re-hashed over again for as long as I can remember. Both possums and opossum are marsupials, however the main difference is they refer to two distinctly different classifications of animal, one on the Eastern coast of Australia and one on the Western coast of Australia. Next time your friends are having the opossum vs possum argument, you've got it covered! For simplicity's sake though, the two names refer to completely different species.

 

In order to understand how the names vary, you need to know a little about Australia. Australia contains two wildlife states - Great Barrier Reef and South Australian Parks and Wildlife Service (SAPWS). In addition, it also has two official languages - English and French. One of the most common words used by Australian Aborigines is oko, which translates as "skin". Possums, on the other hand, are referred to as "monkeys" while the word opossum simply means "apes".

 

Opossum is the official term for possum, the most widespread marsupials in Australia. This specie is native to Australia but was introduced in Hawaii, where it spread into other areas of the world. The word opossum is derived from the Polynesian word "ops" which today serves as a synonym for possum. These small, nocturnal animals are the only surviving species in their native habitats, but have spent many years roaming free on land and water. A variety of beautiful wild possums inhabit tropical rainforests and deserts across Australia, South America, and Hawaii.

Opossum Vs Possum - Who Has the Easiest Way to Get Shot?

 

An average length and weight of an Australian possum are between five and ten inches, with females weighing slightly more. Most live in a range of environments, including arid forests, coastal marshes, swamps, mountain ranges, islands, and urban areas. Many possums are secretive creatures, being smart enough to hide their tracks and identity even under rocks or logs. Some others are known to have been seen in public places like zoos.

 

According to The Complete Answer by John Douglas, an animal expert who has spent much time studying Australian wildlife, opossum is actually a subspecies of the shrew. Other experts believe that the opossum is related to the mole-like species Macropus magna. The scientific name of this possum is Mylomyces pusillus. The word possum is derived from "oss" meaning "to wear, handle, or bear" and "pus" meaning "tail".

 

In Australia, opossum is regarded as one of the most popular pets and they are commonly kept as pets in homes. These small-sized animals are native to Australia but have now spread into surrounding areas like South America, New Zealand and parts of Asia. In the southern part of Australia, these small creatures are known as gray monkeys or wild cats. They are considered as good climbers and jumpers and are capable of running at speeds of up to 10 miles per hour.

 

Oftentimes, possums are seen wearing the skunk's red tail, which is considered their crowning glory. Despite its skunk-like appearance, this is not the skunk's only trait. Unlike skunks and raccoons, possums have their own distinct characteristics. It is commonly known for its larger size and for its nocturnal habits.

 

The common misconception about opossum species is usually regarding their diets. Oftentimes, people believe that these creatures eat berries, seeds and other items found in nature. Contrary to this assumption, there are three specific foods opossum species feed on; cellulose, seeds and meat. This may seem to be confusing since it is common knowledge that opossum are omnivorous yet these creatures are known to be diet specialists - they are capable of eating almost anything except plant-based foods and fungi.

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