Possums are nocturnal marsupials native to Australia and New Zealand. They are generally solitary creatures, and their exact movements during the night are still largely unknown. However, there are a few signs that can indicate how far possums travel each night in search of food and shelter.
Daily Routine of Possums
Possums are typically crepuscular, meaning they are most active at dawn and dusk. During the day, they rest in hollowed logs, or tree cavities, where they remain safe from predators. At night, they emerge to feed on fruits, vegetables, insects, eggs, and even small mammals.
Home Range
The home range is the area a possum uses to search for food and shelter. It typically consists of a few trees, or a small patch of forest. The size of the home range depends on the type of possum and availability of food. Smaller species tend to have smaller home ranges than larger species.
How Far Do Possums Travel At Night?
Possums typically travel no more than two or three kilometers from their den at night, although some species may travel further. The exact distance varies depending on the availability of food sources and the size of the possum. Smaller possums may stay closer to their den, while larger ones may travel further.
Factors That Influence Possum Movement
Possums can be influenced by a variety of factors when deciding how far to travel each night. These include the availability of food sources, the presence of predators, and the size of the home range. When food sources are scarce, possums may travel further than usual in search of sustenance. Similarly, when predators are present, possums may stay closer to the safety of their den.
Signs of Possums in the Area
While it is difficult to determine how far possums travel each night, there are a few signs that can indicate their presence in an area. Droppings, footprints, and tracks left in the mud or dust are all indicators that a possum has been in the vicinity.
Diet of Possums
The diet of possums largely depends on the type of species and the area in which they live. Common foods for possums include fruits, vegetables, insects, eggs, and small mammals. They will also occasionally eat carrion, or dead animals.
Predators of Possums
Possums are prey to a variety of predators, including cats, foxes, snakes, birds of prey, and dingoes. In urban areas, possums are also at risk of being attacked by dogs, although this is not as common as in rural areas.
Benefits of Possums
Despite their reputation as pests, possums can actually be beneficial to the environment. They are important seed dispersers, and their droppings can help to fertilize the soil. Possums can also help to maintain a healthy ecosystem by controlling the populations of pests, such as insects and small mammals.
How to Live With Possums
If you live in an area with possums, there are a few steps you can take to reduce the impact they have on your property. Keep pet food indoors, and make sure trash cans are securely covered. If necessary, install a motion-activated light or sprinkler system in your yard to deter possums from entering. You can also install barriers, such as fences or netting, to keep them away from your garden and other areas of your property.