Table of Contents
What states have possums?
Geography. The Virginia opossum appears throughout Central America, up into Texas and as far north as Nebraska. From there, the animal’s natural territory extends east across the United States to the coast from Florida to New England. The species is also found along the west coast of California, Oregon and Washington.
Is it legal to trap possums in South Carolina?
In South Carolina, the legal trapping season is December 1 – March 1 for licensed trappers, however a private landowner may apply for a free depredation permit outside of the regular trapping season or if they do not have a trapping license.
Do possums bite you?
Opossums are more likely to growl, hiss and show their 50 sharp teeth than to bite. They are a relatively placid animal and like to avoid confrontation at all costs. However, if cornered they do have the ability to bite.
Should you shoot possums?
You don’t need to kill opossums. If it’s legal in your state, it’s easier to trap them in live cage traps and relocate them. Even if you do intend to kill the animal, it’s easier to catch in a live trap than by lethal means. Killing opossums is generally a bad idea.
Can I trap squirrels in my yard?
Ground squirrels are native to California, but they have no protections. The state classifies them as nongame animals, which means you can trap and kill as you wish.
Where does an opossum live in South Carolina?
The diversity of food items it will utilize allows it to live in almost all habitats in South Carolina. Opossums thrive in both woodlands and farmlands and are also commonly found in residential areas.
How big does an opossum get to be?
The opossum weighs 4 to 7 lbs. and stands 6 to 8 inches high at the shoulder. Approximately 2-4 years. The opossum is one of the most adaptable animals in North America.
What kind of food does an opossum eat?
Opossums are known to eat fruits, crayfish, snails, worms, frogs, salamanders, dead fish and other carrion, mice, snakes, birds’ eggs and sometimes even birds and rabbits. The opossum is polygamous, breeding from January through August. Females produce at least 2 litters annually in their southern range.
When does an opossum have its first litter?
The opossum is polygamous, breeding from January through August. Females produce at least 2 litters annually in their southern range. After gestation, the young crawl from the genital opening to the pouch where they each attach to a nipple for a period of 6 to 7 weeks.