If you’re curious about the length, age, and size of adult opossums, you’ve come to the right place. Adult opossums typically measure between 2 and 3 feet long, including their tail, and weigh around 4 to 14 pounds. Their size plays a key role in how they navigate their environment and avoid predators.

You might wonder how long opossums live, especially in the wild. Most opossums have a short lifespan, rarely living longer than 2 to 4 years due to natural threats and harsh conditions. Understanding their size and lifespan can help you appreciate these unique creatures more deeply.

Opossum Age and Size Overview

You will find that opossum growth involves distinct stages marked by steady increases in length and weight. The size of a full-grown opossum varies significantly by species, with some species growing larger than others. Knowing these details helps in understanding how big an opossum can get at various points in its life.

Typical Growth Stages

From birth, an opossum increases rapidly in size during its first few months. Newborns are tiny, about 0.3 inches (7.6 mm) long and weigh less than a gram. By two months, young opossums reach roughly 5 inches in body length.

At six months, the average opossum is nearly fully grown, although it may continue to gain weight. You can expect adult opossums to reach maturity around this time, when their growth in length slows but weight can still increase. The lifespan in the wild is typically 1 to 2 years, so the 6-month mark represents a significant milestone in growth.

Full-Grown Opossum Measurements

A full-grown opossum generally measures between 15 and 20 inches in body length, not including the tail. The tail can add 10 to 15 inches in length. The weight of adult opossums varies, typically ranging from 2 to 6.4 kg (4.4 to 14 pounds).

Below is a simplified size range for the common Virginia opossum, the species most often encountered:

Your experience with opossum size will depend on the specific individual and its environment.

Variation Among Opossum Species

Not all opossums reach the same size. Species like the Virginia opossum grow larger than smaller species, such as the Mouse Opossum. Length and weight differ markedly across species, influenced by habitat and diet.

For example, smaller species may grow to only 6 to 10 inches in body length with proportionally shorter tails. Some tropical opossums are more compact and weigh less, often under 1 pound when fully grown. Your estimate of how big an opossum is must consider the species to avoid confusion.

Special Considerations for Pygmy and Adult Opossums

When assessing opossum length, age, and size, it is essential to understand the unique traits of both pygmy and adult opossums. These differences impact their care, behavior, and growth expectations.

Distinct Features of the Pygmy Opossum

The pygmy opossum is notably smaller than the average adult opossum. Adult pygmy opossums typically measure between 9 and 12 cm in body length, excluding the tail, which adds another 7 to 10 cm. This species weighs only about 40 to 90 grams.

Their small size affects their life span, averaging 2 to 3 years in the wild. Unlike larger opossums, pygmy opossums have a more delicate frame and require more precise environmental conditions for survival.

You should be aware that their young mature quickly but remain smaller than full-sized opossums, which influences their feeding habits and habitat suitability.

Comparing Adult and Juvenile Opossum Sizes

Adult opossums grow significantly larger than their juvenile counterparts and the pygmy species. Adults range from 30 to 50 cm in body length, excluding a tail that adds roughly 25 to 35 cm. The weight can range from 2 to 5 kilograms.

Juvenile size varies through development stages, often starting at just a few centimeters after birth. Growth accelerates rapidly during the first few months, reaching near-adult size by around six months.

You must consider that size differences also reflect in their behavior and diet — adults require more food and larger territory. Tracking size progression allows better insight into health and age estimation.

Catch that Opossum Roaming Near Your Home!

If you notice opossums near your home, understanding their size and age can help you identify and manage them. Adult opossums typically measure 2 to 3 feet long, including their long tail. Their size varies depending on age, with younger opossums being smaller but growing quickly.

Opossums are nocturnal and opportunistic, often roaming neighborhoods in search of food. How big is an opossum? Typically, adult opossums weigh between 4 and 14 pounds, with body lengths ranging from approximately 12 to 20 inches. Knowing this helps you gauge the presence of young versus mature opossums.

To catch or deter opossums, focus on securing food sources, such as pet food, garbage, and fallen fruit. They seek easy meals and shelter spots such as under decks and porches. Setting up humane traps or contacting professionals can help ensure the safe removal of the animal.

If you need help with wildlife removal, call Critter Stop at (214) 234-2616 for a free inspection. Their skilled team is known for delivering thorough work and exceptional customer service. Critter Stop is trusted by many due to its professional and humane solutions for opossum and pest issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

You will find detailed facts about opossum length, age, size, behavior, and species differences below. This information clarifies how opossums grow and adapt from juvenile stages to adulthood in various environments.

What's the length, age, and size when they reach maturity, and how does it vary by species?

Opossums typically reach maturity at 6 to 12 months old. Length varies by species; for example, the common Virginia opossum reaches 13-37 inches, including the tail. Smaller species, such as the pygmy opossum, mature to a shorter length, typically around 8-12 inches in total.

What does a typical adult opossum do during nighttime scavenging?

Adult opossums forage alone at night, searching for insects, small animals, fruits, and human food scraps. Their size and age significantly impact mobility and food choice, with full-grown opossums being able to cover larger areas efficiently. Nighttime scavenging supports their energy needs for survival and reproduction.

How big is an opossum supposed to be before it leaves the mother’s pouch?

Juvenile opossums usually leave the mother’s pouch after 2 to 3 months when they reach about 3 to 4 inches in length. Their size at this stage indicates sufficient development to cling on and start exploring outside the pouch. Full growth continues after the offspring leaves the mother.

Can a pygmy opossum survive in suburban environments with mild winters?

Yes, pygmy opossums can survive mild suburban winters if they have adequate food and shelter. They rely on their small size and agility to find insects and small fruits around homes and gardens. Their survival depends on minimal frost and access to available cover during the colder months.

What does a full-grown opossum weigh compared to a juvenile in the wild?

A full-grown opossum weighs between 4 and 14 pounds, depending on the species and region. Juveniles weigh under 4 ounces when they first leave the pouch and steadily gain weight as they grow. Weight increase reflects their development in length and overall size.