Possums are strange creatures with a peculiar behavior that has baffled humans for centuries. When faced with danger, possums have the ability to play dead, which involves going completely limp and unresponsive. This behavior is the origin of the phrase, “playing possum.”
But why do possums do this? In this blog post, we will explore the science behind possums’ unique survival strategy and uncover the reasons behind their fascinating behavior.
Why Do Possums Play Dead?
Possums play dead as a survival strategy to protect themselves from predators. When threatened or attacked by a predator, possums enter a state of shock and become completely still, with their eyes closed and tongue hanging out. They also emit a foul-smelling odor from their anal glands, which further convinces predators that they are dead.
Playing dead serves as a defense mechanism for possums because most predators, such as dogs and foxes, are attracted to movement and may ignore a lifeless possum.
Additionally, possums have a lower body temperature than most mammals, which slows down their metabolism, making it more difficult for predators to detect any signs of life.
The ability to play dead is an innate behavior for possums, meaning it is something they are born with and do not need to learn. This behavior is believed to evolve as a survival adaptation to the harsh and unpredictable environment in which possums live.
Possums are nocturnal animals preyed upon by many predators, including owls, coyotes, and even domestic cats.
In all, possums play dead as a survival mechanism to deter predators and increase their chances of survival. This unique behavior has evolved over time and is a testament to the adaptability of these fascinating creatures.
How Do Possums Play Dead?
When possums play dead, they enter a state called “thanatosis,” which is a type of self-induced shock. This state is characterized by the possum becoming completely still, with its eyes closed and tongue hanging out. The possum’s body also goes limp, making it appear lifeless to predators.
During this state, possums can remain motionless for up to several hours, depending on the severity of the threat.
In addition to remaining still, possums also emit a foul-smelling odor from their anal glands, which adds to the illusion that they are dead.
The ability to play dead is an innate behavior for possums, meaning they do not need to learn it.
When threatened, the possum’s body automatically enters the thanatosis state as a defense mechanism. This response is triggered by the possum’s nervous system, which sends signals to its muscles to become completely still.
How Long Does a Possum Play Dead?
Possums can play dead for several minutes to several hours, depending on the severity of the threat.
The duration of the thanatosis state is largely determined by the possum’s ability to stay still and the predator’s level of interest.
Do Possums Play Dead with Eyes Open?
Possums do not close their eyes while they pretend dead. Their body becomes entirely motionless, their eyes close, and their tongue hangs out as they reach the thanatosis stage.
The nervous system of the possum naturally produces this reaction, which aids in convincing predators that the prey is dead.
Do Possums Breathe When Playing Dead?
Yes, possums continue to breathe when they are playing dead. Although they appear lifeless and do not move, their body is still functioning, and their heart and respiratory system continue to work. Playing dead is a state of shock that allows the possum to conserve energy and increase its chances of survival.
Do Possums Poop When They Play Dead?
Yes, possums can defecate when they play dead. This is because they enter a state of shock and their muscles relax, which can cause their bladder and bowel to release.
Additionally, possums also emit a foul-smelling odor from their anal glands, and this odor helps to further deter predators.
Do Baby Possums Play Dead?
Yes, baby possums can also play dead. Playing dead is an innate behavior that possums are born with, and they can enter the thanatosis state at any age.
In fact, baby possums may be more vulnerable to predators and may rely on this defense mechanism more frequently than adult possums.
Which Other Animals Play Dead Like Possums Do?
Several other animals besides possums play dead as a defense mechanism. Some of these animals include:
- Hognose snakes
- Eastern cottontail rabbits
- European green crabs
- Black-tailed prairie dogs
- Virginia opossums (related to possums, but different species)
- Death feigning beetles
- South American opossums
- Jumping spiders
These animals use the tactic of playing dead to deter predators and increase their chances of survival. Like possums, they enter a state of shock and become motionless, giving the appearance that they are dead.
