Yet they are actually useful and rather clean neighbors. If other animals are full of bluster, the possum thrives by lying low. It can't see, hear, run or fight well. It navigates mostly by smell. This collapse often works.
Disconcerted predators move on.
The possum is a strong swimmer and good climber, with an opposable thumb on its hind foot. It is resistant to snake venom and immune to most contagious and viral diseases, including rabies. Because of this, and because they eat pests such as rats, mice and roaches, possums are proof that looks ain't everything. Contrary to myth, possum does not sleep while hanging from its tail. It snoozes in dark, cool, low places such as borrowed burrows, porches, decks, garages and woodpiles.