Is the O silent in the word opossum?

The O in “opossum” is spelled but not pronounced. It is a silent letter, just like the H in the word “honest.” The articles “a” and “an” are correctly based on the first pronounced letter, not simply the first letter.

How is opossum pronounced?

Opossum, pronounced uh-poss-uhm, is still favored for formal writing.

Is possum pronounced or opossum?

Both possum and opossum correctly refer to the Virginia opossum frequently seen in North America. In common use, possum is the usual term; in technical or scientific contexts opossum is preferred. Opossum can be pronounced with its first syllable either voiced or silent.

Why is possum spelled opossum?

When to Use Possum The possum (scientific name: Phalangeridae) was given its name because of its resemblance to the opossum of the Americas. Sir Joseph Banks, who accompanied the great English explorer Captain James Cook, likened the furry creature he saw in Australia to “an animal of the Opossum tribe.”

What is the difference between a common opossum and a Virginia opossum?

However, these are two different species. The common opossum’s scientific name is Didelphis marsupialis, and the Virginia opossum’s scientific name is Didelphis virginiana. These types of opossums have a cone-shaped nose with a pink tip, a long hairless tail, and white, gray and black fur.

Do Possum carry diseases?

Opossums carry diseases such as leptospirosis, tuberculosis, relapsing fever, tularemia, spotted fever, toxoplasmosis, coccidiosis, trichomoniasis, and Chagas disease. They may also be infested with fleas, ticks, mites, and lice. Opossums are hosts for cat and dog fleas, especially in urban environments.

Is it bad to have a possum in your yard?

But far from being a nuisance, opossums can be beneficial for your garden, eating snails, slugs, insects and sometimes even small rodents. They’ll even clean up spilled garbage and fruit that has fallen off trees.

Do opossums carry diseases?

How many teeth does the Virginia opossum have?

50
The opossum has a heavyset body covered with grayish fur. It has a white face and thin, black ears. Its long head has a pointed snout, long whiskers and 50 sharp teeth.

Do possums eat cats?

Opossums do not prey on cats or other larger mammals but will attack them if cornered, or if competing for food. Opossums cause loss to home gardens by eating nuts, berries, fruits, and grapes. They eat pet food left outside and may raid compost bins.

Are possums bad in your yard?

Surprisingly, the answer is yes. Compared to other types of wildlife, they are very helpful. Opossums not only play an essential role in the ecosystem, but they can also be a valuable asset to your garden, in spite of the fact that most people are quick to control their numbers.

What do possums hate?

Did you know possums hate the smell of garlic? That’s right! So, you could consider crushing garlic pods and spreading them around the area. Although they hate the smell of ammonia too, we advise you to stay away from it to avoid any health-hazards caused due to exposure.