What to Feed a Possum: And Why They Might Prefer Your Leftover Pizza

When it comes to feeding a possum, the first thing to understand is that these nocturnal creatures are opportunistic omnivores. This means they are not particularly picky eaters and will consume a wide variety of foods. However, just because they can eat almost anything doesn’t mean they should. Let’s dive into the fascinating world of possum diets, explore what’s best for them, and why they might just sneak into your trash for that leftover pizza.

1. The Natural Diet of a Possum

In the wild, possums have a diverse diet that includes fruits, vegetables, insects, small animals, and even carrion. They are nature’s little cleanup crew, often eating things that other animals avoid. This adaptability is one of the reasons they thrive in both rural and urban environments.

• Fruits and Vegetables: Possums love fruits like apples, bananas, and berries. They also enjoy vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and leafy greens. These provide essential vitamins and nutrients.
• Insects and Small Animals: Possums are excellent at controlling pest populations. They eat insects like beetles, cockroaches, and snails, as well as small rodents and birds.
• Carrion: As scavengers, possums help keep the environment clean by eating dead animals. This might sound unappetizing to us, but it’s a crucial part of their diet.

2. What to Feed a Possum in Your Backyard

If you’re considering feeding a possum that visits your yard, it’s important to offer foods that are safe and nutritious. Here are some recommendations:

• Fresh Fruits and Vegetables: As mentioned earlier, possums enjoy a variety of fruits and veggies. Make sure to wash them thoroughly to remove any pesticides.
• Cooked Eggs or Meat: Small amounts of cooked eggs or lean meats can be a good source of protein. Avoid giving them raw meat, as it may contain harmful bacteria.
• Dry Cat or Dog Food: In moderation, high-quality dry pet food can be a convenient option. However, it should not replace their natural diet.
• Nuts and Seeds: These can be a tasty treat, but they should be given sparingly due to their high fat content.

3. Foods to Avoid

While possums are not picky, some foods can be harmful to them. Avoid feeding them the following:

• Processed Foods: Chips, candy, and other junk food are not suitable for possums. They lack nutritional value and can lead to health problems.
• Dairy Products: Possums are lactose intolerant, so milk, cheese, and other dairy items can cause digestive issues.
• Chocolate and Caffeine: These are toxic to many animals, including possums.
• Raw Potatoes and Onions: These can be harmful to their digestive system.

4. Why Possums Love Human Food (Especially Pizza)

Possums are notorious for raiding trash cans, and it’s not hard to see why. Human food, especially leftovers like pizza, is often high in calories and easy to access. While a slice of pizza might seem like a harmless treat, it’s not the healthiest option for a possum. The high salt, fat, and preservative content can lead to obesity and other health issues over time.

That said, the occasional pizza crust might not hurt, but it’s best to stick to more natural foods if you want to keep your backyard possum healthy.

5. The Ethical Considerations of Feeding Possums

Feeding wildlife can be a contentious topic. While it’s tempting to share your snacks with a friendly possum, there are a few things to consider:

• Dependency: Regularly feeding possums can make them reliant on humans for food, which can be problematic if you move away or stop feeding them.
• Health Risks: Human food can lead to nutritional imbalances and health problems in possums.
• Safety: Feeding possums can attract other wildlife, such as raccoons or rats, which might not be as welcome in your yard.

If you do decide to feed possums, do so sparingly and focus on providing foods that mimic their natural diet.

6. Creating a Possum-Friendly Environment

Instead of directly feeding possums, consider creating an environment that supports their natural foraging habits. Here are a few tips:

• Plant Native Trees and Shrubs: These provide natural food sources like fruits, nuts, and insects.
• Provide Fresh Water: A shallow dish of water can be a lifesaver, especially during dry seasons.
• Avoid Pesticides: Chemicals can harm possums and reduce their natural food supply.

7. Fun Facts About Possums

• Playing Dead: When threatened, possums often “play dead” as a defense mechanism. This behavior, known as thanatosis, can last for several minutes to hours.
• Immune to Snake Venom: Possums have a natural resistance to snake venom, making them unique among mammals.
• Short Lifespan: In the wild, possums typically live only 2-4 years, though they can live longer in captivity.

FAQs

Q: Can possums eat bread?
A: Yes, possums can eat bread, but it should be given in moderation as it lacks nutritional value.

Q: Are possums dangerous to humans?
A: Possums are generally not aggressive and pose little threat to humans. They are more likely to play dead or flee when confronted.

Q: How often should I feed a possum?
A: If you choose to feed a possum, do so sparingly—once or twice a week at most. Overfeeding can lead to dependency and health issues.

Q: Do possums carry diseases?
A: While possums can carry diseases like leptospirosis, they are less likely to transmit rabies due to their low body temperature.

Q: What should I do if I find an injured possum?
A: Contact a local wildlife rehabilitation center for assistance. Do not attempt to handle the possum yourself, as they can become defensive when injured.

Feeding a possum can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to do so responsibly. By understanding their dietary needs and providing the right foods, you can help these fascinating creatures thrive while maintaining a healthy balance in your local ecosystem. And who knows? Maybe they’ll leave your pizza alone next time.