The opossum is found throughout most of the eastern United States and has expanded its range to the north and to the west. It is very common throughout most of its range and is an extremely adaptable animal, often living in very close proximity to man. Its preferred habitat is forested areas, preferably close to water. It is a nocturnal mammal feeding on a wide variety of items including fruits, berries, and other plants, insects, earthworms, reptiles, amphibians, birds, and small mammals. It does not hestitate to feed on carrion and is often encountered searching for dead animals along roadways.
Opossums are active year-round but often den up when the weather is extremely cold.
They will utilize just about any sheltered location for a den including hollows in trees and fallen logs, rock cavities, brush piles, and the burrows of other animals. Denning sites are changed frequently. The opossum uses its prehensile tail to bring nesting material such as leaves, grass, and other material into the den. Opossums begin breeding in late winter and early spring. Two to three litters a year are born after a gestation period of only 12 to 13 days.