Distinguishing Opossum and Possum: Understanding Their Differences and Usage

Distinguishing Opossum and Possum: Understanding Their Differences and Usage

What is the Difference Between Opossum and Possum?

The words “opossum” and “possum” might sound the same, but they are different animals! Let’s learn more about them.

History

Opossum: This word is used mainly in North America. The opossum is a type of animal that comes out at night. The name was first used by Native American people.

Possum: The word “possum” comes from Australia and New Zealand. These animals look a bit like opossums but live in forests and like to climb trees.

How to Use Them

Opossum: Use “opossum” when you are talking about the animal from the United States or Canada. They have a white face and are often seen at night.

Possum: Use “possum” when talking about the animals in Australia or New Zealand. They have a bushy tail and like to live in trees.

Trick to Remember the Difference

Remember “O” for Opossum and “O” for America, since the animal lives in that area. Remember “P” for Possum and “P” for Australia or New Zealand, as these are the places they call home.

Example Sentences

Opossum

• The opossum walked across my garden last night.
• My neighbor saw an opossum eating trash.
• Opossums are not dangerous; they play dead when scared.
• An opossum has a white face and sharp teeth.
• I learned about opossums in my science class.

Possum

• The possum climbed the big tree in our backyard.
• In Australia, possums are common in the cities.
• The possum has a fluffy tail and cute ears.
• We saw a possum at the zoo today.
• Possums in New Zealand are different from opossums in America.

Summary

In short, use “opossum” for animals in North America with white faces. Use “possum” for animals in Australia and New Zealand with bushy tails. Remember where they live to choose the right word!