Do Opossums Have Natural Predators in the Wild?

Natural Predators of Opossums

Opossums face several predators in the wild, each with distinct hunting strategies. Coyotes, for instance, primarily target young opossums or those separated from their mother. A study found that coyotes are responsible for approximately 30% of opossum mortalities in some areas. In contrast, hawks such as red-tailed hawks and Swainson’s hawks tend to target adult opossums, often striking them mid-air during nocturnal flights. The average hawking success rate is around 10-15%.

Opossum Defenses Against Predators

Opossums have developed various defense mechanisms to counter predators, particularly in situations where they cannot escape. Their iconic “playing dead” behavior, also known as thanatosis, can be an effective deterrent against predators. However, this technique has a success rate of around 50-60%, as some predators, such as coyotes, may still attack even when an opossum is in this state. Another defense mechanism is the opossum’s ability to release a foul-smelling fluid, often as a result of being threatened or scared. This fluid can be effective in deterring predators in close proximity.