Opossums
Native to Texas
Background
Opossum's are found in nearly all parts of the state. It has an economic value for its pelt, and its meat is considered a delicacy by some. It is one of the chief contributors to the Texas fur crop. They are not likely to carry rabies, in fact wild dogs are more likely to carry rabies opposed to opossums. They have prehensile tails which are adapted for grasping and wrapping around things like tree limbs.
why are they endangered/ Solutions
Domestic pets (cats and dogs primarily) are the main causes for Opossums deaths in suburban areas, especially for young Opossums. Bites from cats and dogs can cause infections, punctured organs, broken bones, nerve damage, and death. Road kill, when they're trying to get from one place to another
keep pets indoors at night. Drive with more caution .
Fun Facts
They have partial or total immunity to the venom produced by rattlesnakes, cottonmouths and other pit vipers.
They can find their way through a maze more quickly than rats and cats.
Opossums help keep rats and cockroaches at away by competing with them for food. Opossums will often kill cockroaches and rats if they find them in their territory. They have 50 teeth.They play dead, this is an involuntary response (like fainting) rather than a conscious act. They roll over, become stiff, close their eyes or stare off into space and bare their teeth as saliva foams around the mouth and a foul-smelling fluid is secreted from glands.
opossum playing dead #1