Does the Only Marsupial Found in North America Live in Colorado?

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Have you ever seen an opossum in real life? They look like something between a rat and a beaver, just more terrifying. While these creatures can look menacing, they are very timid and will play dead when they feel threatened.

READ: How Common Are Fleas in Colorado? The opossum is the only marsupial native to North America and can be found throughout the southern part of the United States. Weighing in at about seven pounds, opossums have an opposable toe that lets them grab onto things and climb trees, much like a human.

While living in Florida, I would see opossums all the time in the dark of night. When you come across one, they always look surprised with their mouths open and somewhat bothered to be seen.

Do Opossums Call Colorado Home? You might be surprised to know that there are opossums in parts of Colorado. I thought that the rugged landscape of our state would be a bit too harsh for these creatures. Turns out, I was wrong.

According to Colorado Parks and Wildlife, the Virginia Opossum lives in parts of eastern Colorado and was first discovered in 1903. Opossums live in burrows made by other animals, under rocks, and in hollow trees.

Opossums have an average of two litters of babies each year. Those litters range from five to 15 opossums. Much like a kangaroo, opossum babies live in their mother's pouch for around three months before venturing out into the world. The only marsupial that lives in the United States and North America has a very short lifespan of only 16 months. On rare occasions, opossums can live to about two years old.

RELATED: Are There Cockroaches in Colorado? The next time you venture into southeastern Colorado, keep an eye out. You never know if you will see an opossum.

RANKED: 12 Most Annoying Insects During Colorado Summers We asked, you answered, and now we officially know what insects bug Coloradans the most.

Gallery Credit: Tanner Chambers

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Gallery Credit: Wes Adams

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