Amarillo’s Creepy Visitor Is Actually a Backyard Hero

One of the wild animals that roam Amarillo neighborhoods is just as confusing as its name.  The opossum.  Most people think it's just "possum," but this creature includes a silent "O" in its name, much like its sneaky personality

This creature looks creepy and vicious when you surprise it or walk upon it.  However, the opossum is not vicious.  The opossum is good for our ecosystem.

On any given day, you can find someone posting on social media about an opossum being in their backyard and how to kill it.

The answer is simple: you don't kill an opossum; you just leave it alone.

Are Opossums Dangerous?

I have small animals.

That’s great, most people do. Opossums are generally not aggressive and will not harm your pets; in fact, they are scared of your dogs and cats. They are just trying to live their life, they are probably looking for food and water, and that opossum scaling your picket fence probably has a pouch full of babies she's trying to take care of.

Trust me, I have had plenty of run-ins with opossums, and they are beneficial.

Read More: The Fascinating Wildlife Of Amarillo: A Closer Look At Urban Foxes

First off, opossums do not carry rabies. Their body temperature is too low.  So when you sneak up on one and they show you their creepy teeth, they aren't rabid, they are scared.  Most just play dead, hence the term "playing possum."

Fun story - my cat somehow brought a juvenile opossum into the house one time, and when I walked into my dark hallway, I thought he had brought in a giant rat. Then I turned the light on and saw this young dead opossum, or so I thought.

So I went to grab some gloves and an old trash can from outside to remove this dead animal from my hallway. That little thing opened its eyes and ran behind my TV stand.  It was really comical as we tried to chase it out from behind the TV, and my cat tried to catch it again.

Finally, we trapped it and took this small opossum outside and put it in the alley.  It was far enough away from my house, but close enough for it to find its family.

Why are Opossums Beneficial to Amarillo?

• They eat ticks; they can eat up to 5,000 each year, which is a good thing, and it helps control the spread of Lyme Disease and other diseases.
• They also eat other pests, including snails, slugs, beetles, roaches, and other insects.
• They are also good for pests, including rodents, wild birds, and snakes.  Speaking of snakes, opossums are immune to a snake's venom.
• Opossums are omnivores. They enjoy fruits and vegetation. They prefer the rotten fruit on the ground, but that's good for you because they are cleaning it up for you.

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Most opossums have a lifespan of about 1-2 years, with up to 4 years in the wild. Their biggest predators are humans, owls, and other wildlife.

If an opossum is feeling threatened, they will growl, hiss, and show their teeth, and of course, play dead.

What to Do if You See an Opossum?

If you see one of these creatures, just leave them be, and don't feed them. Generally, they will only stay around your home a few days and then move on.  If you happen to come upon a deceased opossum, check their pouch; they may still have babies that are alive. If so, save them and contact your local wildlife specialist.