Ecotonal situations are preferred. Active from dusk to dawn, the opossum often has an activity peak near midnight. During periods of extreme cold, there may be some diurnal activity. Activity is lower in winter, and the opossum may remain inactive in its burrow for several days. Fat is accumulated in the fall and used as an energy reserve for periods when food is limited.
Home ranges vary in size.
Home range shape may be roughly circular or elliptical, but is often elongate along watercourses. Opossums are somewhat nomadic, changing den sites often . The Virginia opossum does not defend its home range, but is solitary and aggressive. The species is polyestrous, with an estrous cycle of 22-38 days. Gestation is 12.5-13 days.