Clinton Hill May Ogle Opossums

Opossums roam Carroll Gardens, Park Slope and other Brooklyn areas. Given that they are not territorial but nomadic, you might see one in Clinton Hill any day now. The City released them all over Brooklyn as a "rat squad" and they've already made their way to Manhattan, reports the NY Post.

What should you do if you encounter an opossum? Be armed with knowledge.

Opossums are misunderstood. So, let's dispel some of the myths about them, right now, with information from the National Opossum Society.

Myth #1: Opossums are rodents like rats.

Fact: Contrary to statements like the one in this post that calls opossums "Rodenti Stringytailum," opossums are not rodents. They are marsupials like koala bears and kangaroos with pouches to carry their young and belong to the Didelphis genus.

Myth #2: Opossums are vicious and attack people.

Fact: Docile, slow-moving, timid, and frightened constitute the opossum's nature. It tries to avoid confrontation. The expression "play possum" derives from the opossum's natural instinct to "play dead" when frightened. Opossums may growl, hiss, and show their teeth as a defense mechanism. They try to "act" tough. However, an opossum will flee before attack. Just don't corner it as with any animal.

Myth #3: Opossums carry rabies.

Fact: Opossums are less likely to carry rabies and other diseases than most animals due to their low body temperature.

What to do

If you see an opossum outdoors, just leave it alone. It will go away on its own. If one is in your house, call 311.

The NY Post states that "some Brooklynites have become terrified to go into their yards at night." You have nothing to fear. Opossums are much more afraid of you than you are of them.

For more info about opossums, click here.

Till next time, Clinton Hill.

Sources:

Heather Haddon, "Mouse-eating opossums run amok in Brooklyn," The NY Post
The National Opossum Society, "A Short Quiz"
Katia, Kelly, "Yet Another Sighting Of Carroll Gardens "Rodenti Stringytailum" Pardon Me For Asking
Compassionate Action Institute, "Opossums"