Possums Around the World

Possums are found mainly in Australia, New Guinea, and nearby islands, where they inhabit forests, woodlands, grasslands, and sometimes urban areas. Australia is home to many species, including the common brushtail possum, common ringtail possum, and sugar glider. These animals belong to a diverse group of marsupials, most of which carry their young in a pouch or have other adaptations for raising underdeveloped offspring. Many possums are nocturnal, spending the daytime resting in tree hollows, nests, or sheltered places and becoming active at night to search for food.

Although the words sound similar, Australian possums and American opossums are different groups of animals. Australian possums belong to marsupial groups native to Australasia, while American opossums are found throughout parts of North, Central, and South America. The Virginia opossum is particularly well known in North America, where it may live in forests, gardens, and suburban neighborhoods. Across their different ranges, these animals contribute to ecosystems by eating insects, fruits, and other food sources; some also help disperse seeds. Their ability to adapt to different habitats makes possums and opossums fascinating examples of marsupial diversity around the world.