Opossums are North America’s only native marsupials and are commonly found throughout Florida. While they play a beneficial role in the ecosystem by eating insects, carrion, and even ticks, opossums often become a nuisance when they take shelter under homes, porches, or inside attics. Their presence can lead to unwanted mess, odors, and structural issues.
The Virginia opossum is the only species found in Florida. It has a pointed snout, grayish fur, naked tail, and prominent ears. Adults typically weigh between 4 and 14 pounds. Opossums are known for their distinctive behavior of “playing dead” when threatened — a passive defense mechanism.
They are nocturnal and often seen at night rummaging through garbage or crossing roads. Young opossums may be spotted riding on their mother’s back.
Opossums are solitary and mostly active at night. They are scavengers by nature and drawn to easily accessible food sources such as pet food, compost, and trash bins. While they don’t typically build nests, they will take advantage of existing shelter and line it with leaves or insulation.
Breeding can occur nearly year-round in Florida’s warm climate, with peak activity in spring and summer. Females can carry up to 13 young in their pouch and later on their back.
Opossums are considered nuisance wildlife in Florida and may be removed if they are
causing property damage. However, because they are not typically aggressive and provide ecological benefits, humane exclusion is encouraged over lethal removal.
