Opossum vs Possum

Most of the people who live out there in the world find it as a difficult task to differentiate opossums from possums. In fact, they assume that both these animals are the same.  When you take a look at opossums and possums closely, you will figure out that these are two different animal species. From this article, we will provide you with a clear overview of the differences that you can find in between them. Then you will be able to proceed to the next stage of understanding the differences that you can find in them with ease. What is the difference between an opossum and a possum?  A possum can be considered as a type of marsupial. These animals are native to Australia. The word possum is widely being used in Australia. That's because they have become a pest for the people who live in the country. On the other hand, opossum is a typical marsupial variety. However, these animals can be found in America. In fact, opossums are native to America. This is the main difference that you can find in between them.  Even though such a difference can be found in between the two animal varieties, you will often be able to discover how people are using the two different terms interchangeably. This is quite similar to the way how people use bison and buffalo interchangeably. However, it is important to be aware about the two different species and the unique traits of them. Then you will be able to refrain yourself from facing numerous misunderstanding situations that you will come across.  You will be able to find opossums only in the United States of America. You will be able to find sharp teeth in them. On the other hand, opossums have sharp teeth as well. Likewise, possums are native to Australia and you will only be able to find them living in Australia. However, you will be able to find certain variations of possums in the neighboring countries of Australia, such as in New Zealand. You will be able to discover around 70 different species of possums out there in the world. However, all of them are centered in Australia and other countries that are located around Oceania.  Another difference that you can find in opossums is that they are relatively fierce creatures. They are having sharp teeth because of the same reason. Hence, there is a high possibility for the opossums to attack other animals. However, you will not be able to expect such violent behavior from the possums. They are more towards a calm side.  You will be able to find opossums spending most of their time in the trees. In fact, they find it as a comfortable task to spend their time in the trees, instead of sitting in the ground.  Keep these differences in your mind and make sure that you use the correct term when identifying opossums and possums.

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