Is a possum a mammal?

Is a possum a mammal?

There are several dozen different species of opossum, which are often called possums in North America. The most notable is the Virginia opossum or common opossum—the only marsupial (pouched mammal) found in the United States and Canada.

What are mammals and reptiles?

Mammals and reptiles represent two classes of animals that belong to the phylum Chordata. Mammals are warm-blooded animals whereas reptiles are cold-blooded animals. Mammals have hair or fur surrounding the body while reptiles have scales. Mammals give birth to live young and reptiles lay eggs.

Is fish a reptile or mammal?

fish, any of approximately 34,000 species of vertebrate animals (phylum Chordata) found in the fresh and salt waters of the world. Living species range from the primitive jawless lampreys and hagfishes through the cartilaginous sharks, skates, and rays to the abundant and diverse bony fishes.

What is the difference between an opossum and a possum?

While both possums and opossums are marsupials, they are, technically and scientifically, two very different animals. The opossum is a mammal belonging to the family of marsupials located in North America. Possums, on the other hand, are marsupials of Australian origin. The possums were given that name because…

Is the honey possum a mammal or marsupial?

The honey possum is a tiny marsupial, a type of mammal. Being a mammal, it breathes using lungs and its nostrils. Is a ring tailed possum a mammal?

Where are possums found in the United States?

They are found in North, South and Central America, but mainly in the North. Opossums, however, are more commonly referred to simply as possums in the South and Midwest of the USA. The English word ‘possum’ was first used for this opossum variety.

What happens to a possum that is in captivity?

Possums are also prone to disease, death, and infections in captivity. Lack of immunity in captivity conditions can lead to bacterial diseases. Possums that live longer than a year may suffer from cataracts, lose coordination and become obese.