Opossums are New Jersey’s only native marsupial, often mistaken for rodents due to their long, hairless tails and scavenging behavior. They are nocturnal and opportunistic, frequently invading garages, sheds, and attics in search of food and shelter. Opossums feed on garbage, pet food, insects, and even small rodents, making them a common nuisance in both urban and suburban areas.
Though generally non-aggressive, opossums can carry fleas, ticks, and diseases like leptospirosis. When threatened, they exhibit their famous “playing dead” behavior—lying motionless and emitting a foul odor to deter predators.
Preventing opossum infestations involves securing trash bins, sealing entry points, and professional removal if they nest in attics or under porches.