Opossum Didelphimorphia is the order of common opossums of the Western Hemisphere.
The Virginia Opossum is the original animal named "opossum". The word comes from the native
Algonquian, wapathemwa. and is frequently called simply possum. Didelphimorphs are
"opportunistic omnivores", and that means they'll eat just about anything. The can eat and
reproduce in surprisingly tough conditions. They can even survive rattlesnake and cotton
mouth bites. Originally native to the eastern United States, the Virginia Opossum was
intentionally introduced into the west during the Great Depression, probably as a source of food.
Its range has been expanding steadily northwards, thanks in part to more plentiful, man-made
sources of fresh water, increased shelter due to urban encroachment, and milder winters.
Its range has extended into Ontario, Canada. Opossums usually move around a lot, staying
in one area as long as food and water are easily available. They don't waste time building
their own houses. They prefer yours. They nest in dark, secure areas, like crawl spaces and attics.
Wiki: Possum http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Opossum
Possum Network http://www.possumnetwork.com/

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