As you might guess from its name, its most striking characteristic is a rusty-red tail. The back and upper wings are brown, the underparts more or less speckled but with a distinct band of darker speckles across the belly. Often seen perched in a tree near open country, or soaring above searching with sharp eyes for small rodents. Up to 18 young are born naked and blind, each smaller than a honeybee. They climb up to mother's pouch where they live 4-6 weeks, attached to nipples.
Opossums live in open woods, swamps and wastelands.
Bed is a nest of leaves in a hollow log, tree cavity, or burrow. Most weigh 4-10 pounds. The flesh is edible, and the fur is used for trimmings.