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Home » Blog » Uncategorized » How to Tell If an Opossum Is Actually Dead

How to Tell If an Opossum Is Actually Dead

how to tell if opossum is actually dead

Opossums are unique animals with fascinating survival strategies, including "playing dead." This instinctual behavior, known as thanatosis, allows them to deter predators by appearing lifeless. However, this tactic can make it challenging to determine whether an opossum is truly dead or simply pretending. 

This guide will cover the telltale signs to distinguish a lifeless opossum from one employing its natural defense mechanism. Understanding these signs is essential for homeowners, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone encountering a distressed opossum.

What Is Thanatosis?

opossum playing possum

Thanatosis is a survival mechanism used by opossums to avoid predation. When threatened, they fall to the ground, become limp, and exhibit behaviors mimicking death. Depending on the perceived danger, this state can last several minutes to a few hours.

Key Characteristics of Thanatosis

  1. Limp Body: The opossum’s muscles relax completely, making it appear lifeless.
  2. Closed or Glazed Eyes: The eyes may remain open with a vacant, unfocused appearance.
  3. Tongue Hanging Out: The tongue often lolls out of the mouth, adding to the illusion.
  4. Odor Release: Opossums secrete a foul-smelling fluid from their anal glands to mimic the smell of decay, further deterring predators.

How to Tell If an Opossum Is Actually Dead

how to tell if opossum is actually dead

1. Observe Breathing

Breathing is the most reliable indicator of life. Even when playing dead, an opossum continues to breathe, although it may be shallow and slow. Look closely at the chest or abdomen for subtle rising and falling movements.

  • Tip: Use a flashlight to detect movement in dim lighting conditions.

2. Check for Rigor Mortis

Rigor mortis, the stiffening of muscles after death, begins within a few hours of an animal’s passing. An opossum playing dead will remain limp, while a truly dead opossum will have stiffened limbs.

  • How to Test: Gently lift a limb or tail. If it moves freely, the opossum is likely alive.

3. Assess Eye Reflexes

When an opossum plays dead, its eyes may remain open, but it will not react to light or touch. Shine a flashlight into the eyes to see if the pupils contract or dilate. A lack of reaction could indicate death.

  • Note: While unresponsive pupils can suggest death, other factors like illness or injury might also cause this.

4. Examine Body Temperature

A living opossum maintains a warm body temperature, while a dead one gradually cools to match its surroundings. Carefully touch the body to feel for warmth, focusing on areas like the underbelly or armpits.

  • Warning: Avoid direct contact if possible; use gloves to protect yourself from potential pathogens or parasites.

5. Look for Movements Over Time

An opossum playing dead will eventually "revive" once it perceives the danger has passed. This could take anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours. Watch from a safe distance to see if it begins moving or changes its position.

  • Patience Is Key: Avoid handling the opossum prematurely, which could cause unnecessary stress.

6. Inspect for Signs of Injury or Trauma

Severe injuries, bleeding, or visible wounds could indicate the opossum is not just playing dead but has suffered fatal damage. However, opossums are resilient and can survive injuries that might appear fatal at first glance.

  • Tip: Look for blood or unnatural body positions that suggest broken bones.

What to Do If You Find an Opossum Playing Dead

opossum playing possum

1. Give It Space

If you suspect the opossum is playing dead, leave it undisturbed. Back away slowly and ensure the area is quiet and free from threats. The opossum will typically regain consciousness and leave once it feels safe.

2. Avoid Handling

Handling an opossum can cause stress and may lead to defensive behaviors, such as hissing or biting. Only attempt to move the animal if it is in immediate danger, such as lying in a roadway.

  • Use Gloves: Always wear thick gloves to protect yourself from bites, scratches, or parasites.

3. Monitor From a Distance

Observe the opossum for signs of revival. If it does not move after several hours or appears distressed, consider contacting a wildlife professional for guidance.

What to Do If the Opossum Is Dead

how to tell if opossum is actually dead

If you’ve determined that the opossum is dead, proper disposal is necessary to prevent health risks and deter other wildlife.

1. Confirm Death

Double-check for breathing, rigor mortis, and unresponsiveness to ensure the opossum is dead before proceeding with disposal.

2. Dispose of the Body Safely

Follow local regulations for animal disposal. This may involve:

  • Bagging and Bin Disposal: Place the body in a sealed plastic bag and dispose of it in an appropriate outdoor garbage bin.
  • Burial: If allowed, bury the animal at least 2 feet deep to prevent scavengers from digging it up.

3. Sanitize the Area

Clean and disinfect the area where the opossum was found, especially if it was on your property. This helps prevent the spread of disease and removes lingering odors that might attract other animals.

When to Call a Professional

opossum playing possum

If you’re unsure whether the opossum is alive or dead or in a hazardous location, contacting a wildlife professional is the safest option. Professionals have the tools and expertise to handle wildlife humanely and effectively.

Common Myths About Opossums Playing Dead

1. They Choose When to Play Dead

False. Thanatosis is an involuntary response triggered by extreme fear, not a conscious decision by the opossum.

2. They Are Harmless While Playing Dead

False. While seemingly lifeless, a startled opossum may lash out if handled, so caution is always advised.

Conclusion

how to tell if opossum is actually dead

Determining whether an opossum is truly dead or just playing dead can be challenging, but it is crucial for handling the situation appropriately. You can confidently assess the opossum's state by observing key indicators like breathing, body temperature, and responsiveness. If in doubt, give the animal space and contact a wildlife expert.

For professional assistance with wildlife concerns, Critter Stop offers humane solutions tailored to your needs. Critter Stop has a fantastic reputation and online customer reviews because it provides high-quality work and great customer service. Call Critter Stop at (214) 234-2616 today for a free inspection and expert advice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Opossums and Their Behavior

Opossums are fascinating creatures with unique survival tactics, including their well-known ability to "play dead." Encountering an opossum, whether injured or seemingly lifeless, can raise many questions about how to handle the situation. This FAQ section answers common queries about identifying whether an opossum is dead, what to do with an injured one, and understanding their defense mechanisms like thanatosis, offering guidance for safe and humane actions.

How to tell if opossum is actually dead when found on your property?

Look for signs of breathing, subtle movements, or warmth in the body. Opossums playing dead will remain limp and unresponsive but will eventually recover when they feel safe.

Injured opossum what to do if it’s in a dangerous location?

If an injured opossum is in a hazardous spot, carefully move it using gloves and place it in a safe, quiet area. For further assistance, contact a wildlife professional or local rehabilitation center.

What is the scientific term for when an opossum “plays dead” to deter predators?

The scientific term for this behavior is thanatosis, an involuntary response triggered by extreme fear, mimicking death to discourage potential threats.

Why do opossum playing possum sometimes appear lifeless for hours?

Opossums in thanatosis may appear lifeless for extended periods as their bodies go into a temporary state of paralysis, complete with a limp body and odor secretion to enhance the illusion.

How to tell if a opossum is dead by checking its body temperature?

A truly dead opossum will have a cold body, while one playing dead will retain warmth, particularly in the underbelly or armpits. Use gloves to check safely.

Injured opossum what to do to keep it safe until help arrives?

Place the injured opossum in a ventilated container lined with a soft cloth in a dark, quiet area. Avoid offering food or water and contact wildlife rescue immediately.

How to tell if a opossum is dead by observing its eyes?

If the opossum’s pupils are unresponsive to light and the eyes appear glazed or sunken, it may be dead. However, if the eyes are open but not moving, it could be playing dead.

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