Virginia Opossum
Didelphis virginiana · Also known as: opossum, possum
North America’s only marsupial. NPS highlights opossums as nighttime scavengers that clean up carrion on Assateague.
Quick facts
| Group | Marsupial |
|---|---|
| Likelihood nearby | ★★★☆☆ |
| Habitats | Maritime forest, Assateague State Park, Assateague National Seashore, Mainland near OC |
| Seasons (this coast) | year-round |
How to recognize them
- White-gray face, dark eyes, pointed snout, long naked prehensile tail.
- Size of a large house cat; often slow-moving when spotlighted.
Biology notes
- Marsupial: young finish development in a pouch.
- Eats carrion, insects, fruit, and other opportunistic foods—valuable “cleanup crew.”
Where to see them around Ocean City
- Assateague forest edges and roads after dark.
- Mainland residential edges west of Ocean City.
When to look
- Nocturnal year-round; winter animals may dens up in cold snaps.
Viewing tips & etiquette
- If you see one “playing dead,” give it space and leave it alone.
