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No, possums are not aggressive animals. Virginia opossums (Didelphis virginiana) are timid, non-confrontational creatures that prefer to avoid conflict. When threatened, their first instinct is to freeze, hiss, bare their teeth, or play dead (thanatosis). They rarely attack unless cornered or protecting their young. This guide covers possum behavior and how to react if you encounter one.
Key Takeaways
- Possums are not aggressive. They prefer to flee, hiss, or play dead rather than fight.
- Playing dead (thanatosis) is an involuntary stress response, not a conscious choice.
- Hissing and baring teeth is a bluff. The possum is scared, not aggressive.
- Possums rarely bite and are unlikely to attack humans or pets unless cornered.
In This Guide
Possum Behavior Explained
Possums are solitary, nocturnal marsupials with a low stress tolerance. Their behavior is driven by a desire to avoid conflict. When faced with a threat, they have a predictable sequence of responses:
- Freeze: The possum stands still, hoping to go unnoticed. This is its first line of defense.
- Hiss and bare teeth: If the threat continues, the possum opens its mouth wide, hisses, and shows its 50 teeth. This is a bluff, not an attack. The possum is trying to look dangerous without actually fighting.
- Growl: A low growling sound may accompany the hissing. This is another bluff.
- Play dead (thanatosis): If the threat persists, the possum collapses, goes limp, and may drool or release a foul odor. This involuntary response makes predators lose interest.
- Escape: Given any opportunity, the possum will flee. It only attacks as an absolute last resort.
Playing Dead: The Possum’s Signature Move
Playing dead, technically called thanatosis, is an involuntary stress response. The possum’s body goes limp, its eyes glaze over, and it may drool or release a foul-smelling fluid from its anal glands. This state can last from a few minutes to several hours. The possum remains conscious but appears dead, which discourages predators that prefer live prey.
What to Do If You Encounter a Possum
For more, read our possum disease guide and possum backyard guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a possum attack my dog?
Possums generally avoid dogs. If a dog approaches, the possum will hiss, bare its teeth, or play dead. If the dog continues to attack, the possum may bite defensively. Supervise your dog outdoors and keep it away from possums.
How many teeth does a possum have?
Possums have 50 teeth, more than any other North American land mammal. This includes 8 incisors, 4 canines, 12 premolars, and 26 molars. Their teeth are adapted for an omnivorous diet. Despite their impressive dental count, they rarely use them for defense.
Do possums attack humans?
Possum attacks on humans are extremely rare. They are much more likely to flee, hiss, or play dead than to attack. Most defensive bites occur when a possum is cornered or handled. If you leave a possum alone, it will leave you alone.
What should I do if a possum hisses at me?
Back away slowly. The hissing is a bluff, not an attack. The possum is scared and wants you to leave. Give it an escape route and it will retreat. Do not make sudden movements or loud noises.
The Bottom Line
Possums are not aggressive animals. They are timid, non-confrontational marsupials that prefer to avoid conflict. Their hissing, teeth-baring, and playing dead are all defensive bluffing behaviors, not signs of aggression. If you encounter a possum, stay calm, back away slowly, and give it an escape route. It will leave on its own. Possums are generally beneficial animals that eat ticks, insects, and carrion, and they pose little threat to humans or pets.
