January-February 2024 • Nebraskaland 37
an opossum to contract this disease. Compared to other
mammals, some scientists think the opossum's slightly lower
body temperature makes it hard for viruses to survive in its
host. An opossum's normal temperature is around 95 degrees
Fahrenheit compared to a dog's, which is around 101 to 102.5
degrees. Rabies is much more common in animals such as
raccoons, foxes and skunks.
Opossum Teeth
Boasting 50 teeth, the opossum has more than any other
land mammal. In its mouth are four kinds of teeth: incisors
and canines for gripping and tearing, molars to crush their
food and pre-molars for slicing.
Opossums are considered omnivores, which means they
will eat other animals and also plant material. Their teeth
help them do everything from tearing apart prey to crushing
tough nuts and seeds, and they have to be strong enough to
handle different textures and hardness. Opossums also use
their front incisors to precisely pick up small insects.
Their teeth can be used as a defense against predators,
as well. On average, the opossum's bite force is around 45
pounds per square inch, in comparison to a raccoon, which
has a bite force of about 100 pounds per square inch.
Opossums are extremely misunderstood and often
misrepresented in discussion. Many people believe they are
ugly, strange, unintelligent and useless, but just like every
other animal in the ecosystem, opossums have a place.
So, the next time you see these waddling marsupials,
give
them a wave and remember all these cool opossum facts.
N
A Virginia opossum in Cass County. JEFF KURRUS, NEBRASKALAND
