🐀 Virginia Opossum
Didelphis virginiana
Mammal5 toes1.5–2.5 in wide
About
North America's only marsupial. Its hind track has an unmistakable thumb-like toe sticking out sideways.
Track
1.5–2.5 in wide. Five toes on all feet, star-like front print. Hind foot has an opposable, thumb-like inner toe. Toes spread widely with fine claw tips. Trail often shows a dragging tail line.
Where they live
Woodlands, farms, suburbs, near water. Eastern and central U.S., expanding north and west.
When they're active
Nocturnal
What they eat
Omnivore: insects, ticks, fruit, carrion, pet food
Fun fact
An opossum can eat thousands of ticks in a single week.
Should I be concerned?
Usually harmless — they mostly bluff or faint. Give them room to wander off.