Do Possums Have Rabies?

Do Possums Have Rabies?


What Exactly Is a Possum?

First off, let’s clear something up: the correct name for the animal commonly found in the U.S. is the Virginia opossum. While "possum" and "opossum" are often used interchangeably, technically, “possums” live in Australia, and “opossums” live in North America. But for this article’s sake, we’ll go with the commonly used “possum.”

These marsupials are nocturnal, tree-loving, scavenging animals that weigh between 4 and 14 pounds. They have pointy snouts, long tails, and a penchant for rummaging through trash or devouring garden pests.

Common Species Found in North America

  • Virginia Opossum (Didelphis virginiana) – The only marsupial in the U.S. and Canada.

  • Commonly found in wooded areas, suburban neighborhoods, and even cities.

🧠 What Is Rabies?

Overview of Rabies and Its Transmission

Rabies is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system of mammals. It’s typically transmitted through the bite or saliva of an infected animal. Once symptoms appear—such as confusion, aggression, and foaming at the mouth—it’s almost always fatal.

Signs and Symptoms of Rabies in Animals

  • Unprovoked aggression

  • Excessive drooling or foaming

  • Staggering or disoriented movements

  • Unusual vocalizations

  • Paralysis in advanced stages

🔬 Can Possums Get Rabies?

The Science Behind Possums and Rabies Resistance

Here’s the twist: possums are extremely resistant to rabies. Why? It comes down to their body temperature, which is significantly lower than most other warm-blooded mammals.

Body Temperature and Rabies Survival

Possums maintain an internal body temperature of around 94–97°F, while the rabies virus thrives in animals with temperatures closer to 101–103°F. The virus simply doesn’t do well in possums’ cooler internal environment.

Reported Cases of Rabies in Possums

While it’s not impossible for a possum to get rabies, it’s incredibly rare. According to data from the CDC and state wildlife departments, rabies in possums is almost unheard of—fewer than a dozen confirmed cases in decades.

🤔 Why People Think Possums Have Rabies

Strange Behavior Explained

Possums have some quirky behaviors that can look alarming. But weird doesn’t always mean rabid.

Misconceptions Due to “Playing Dead”

Possums are famous for "playing possum"—a defense mechanism where they fall over, drool, bare their teeth, and appear dead. Add a little foam around the mouth, and you’ve got a recipe for misunderstanding.

The Hissing and Salivating Myth

Yes, they hiss. Yes, they drool. But it’s not rabies—it’s defensive behavior, like a scared cat arching its back. It’s meant to scare you off, not infect you.

🐾 Possums vs. Other Rabies-Carrying Wildlife

Raccoons, Bats, and Skunks: The Real Threat

These animals are far more likely to carry rabies:

  • Raccoons: Top rabies carrier in many U.S. states

  • Bats: Common transmitters, especially through unnoticed bites

  • Skunks: High rabies rates in certain regions

Statistical Comparison of Rabies Carriers

Possums are at the bottom of the rabies risk chart. According to CDC data:

  • Raccoons: ~30% of tested animals are positive

  • Bats: ~10%

  • Skunks: ~20%

  • Possums: Less than 1%

🚪 What To Do If You Encounter a Possum

Signs of a Healthy vs. Sick Possum

Healthy possum:

  • Active at night

  • Slowly walking or climbing

  • Hissing when threatened

Sick possum:

  • Active during the day

  • Disoriented or lethargic

  • Visible wounds or parasites

Safe Practices Around Urban Wildlife

  • Do not approach or feed wild possums.

  • Keep trash secured and pet food indoors.

  • If you suspect illness, contact local animal control, not DIY solutions.

🐕 Are Possums Dangerous to Pets or Humans?

Aggression Level in Possums

Possums are non-aggressive by nature. They rarely bite and prefer to avoid confrontation. They're more likely to play dead than attack.

Risks of Disease Transmission (Other Than Rabies)

Possums can carry:

  • Fleas and ticks

  • Leptospirosis

  • Salmonella

But again, these risks are low unless you’re handling or trapping them.

🌿 Do Possums Serve Any Benefits?

Nature’s Pest Control

Possums love eating:

  • Insects

  • Rodents

  • Snails

  • Overripe fruit

They’re natural exterminators in your backyard.

Ticks, Snakes, and Garden Defense

One possum can eat up to 5,000 ticks in a season. They also eat venomous snakes thanks to natural immunity to snake venom. Who knew?

🔎 Myths Busted: The Truth About Possums

Rabies Isn’t the Only Misconception

Other false beliefs include:

  • They’re aggressive (false)

  • They damage property (rare)

  • They’re dirty (they groom themselves like cats)

Possums as Peaceful Neighbors

If left alone, they pose no threat and often help maintain your local ecosystem.

📣 Expert Opinions on Possums and Rabies

What Wildlife Biologists Say

Experts agree: possums are low-risk for rabies and generally misunderstood. Their unique biology makes them less likely to host the virus.

Insights From Animal Control Agencies

Animal control officers often relocate possums rather than euthanize them due to the minimal public health risk.

✅ Possums and Rabies: Final Verdict

So, do possums have rabies? Technically, yes, but realistically, almost never. They’re one of the least likely wild animals to contract or spread rabies. That hiss and drool? Just theatrics.

🧾 Conclusion

Possums might look a little creepy when cornered, but rabies isn't something you need to lose sleep over. They’re harmless, helpful, and honestly just trying to make a living in your backyard. So next time you spot one in the trash, don’t panic—just give it space and let it go about its possum business.


 

All About Animals …

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  • RATS

  • SQUIRRELS

  • RACCOONS

  • OPOSSUMS

  • SNAKES

  • BATS

  • WILDLIFE REMOVAL