Opossum (Rodent)

Opossums are 65 species of marsupial mammals constituting the family Didelphidae. They are the only marsupials found outside the Australian region, and all but one species are found from Mexico south through Argentina. The only species established of Mexico is the common opossum. Didelphis marsupialis, which ranges as far north as southern Canada. The common opossum grows to about 53 cm (21 in) long, plus a hairless 33 cm (13 in) tail; it stand to about 18 cm (7 in) high at the shoulder and weight up to 6.3 kg (14 lb). The opossum's coat is coarse and commonly grey, with white guard hairs; the snout is white, and the tail is black for about half of its length or less. There are five toes on each foot, and the long pointed muzzle contains 50 feet and can be opened beyond 90^o. Opossum are most active at night.

The large common opossum uses its prehensile tail as an anchor while climbing. It hangs upside down by its tail only briefly before it drops to the ground.