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2 dni temu · Gestation Period: The gestation period for Virginia opossums is notably short, lasting about 12 to 13 days. This rapid development is characteristic of marsupials, which give birth to relatively undeveloped young.
The Virginia opossum's ancestors evolved in South America, but spread into North America as part of the Great American Interchange, which occurred mainly after the formation of the Isthmus of Panama about 3 million years ago.
17 paź 2024 · Virginia opossum, the only marsupial (family Didelphidae, subfamily Didelphinae) found north of Mexico. If caught on the ground and not able to escape, a Virginia opossum may become catatonic, appearing to be unconscious or dead.
Both male and female opossums become sexually mature within their first year of life. On average, Virginia opossums have two litters per year, but this varies depending on their specific location. Females in warmer climates may have three litters per year after a gestation period of 12 to 13 days.
Virginia opossums are polygynous, which means that one male mates with multiple females. Breeding is typically from December to August. The brief gestation period is 12 to 13 days and up to 25 young may be produced in each litter.
The Virginia opossum is the world’s northernmost marsupial, and the only opossum found north of Mexico. It is also called the North American opossum. Locals often call it possum, ‘possum, or opossum in Canada and the United States.
Virginia Opossums are known for their unique reproductive system, which includes a short gestation period followed by offspring development in the mother’s pouch. They are opportunistic omnivores, feeding on a diverse diet including fruits, insects, small animals, and garbage.
