Do Opossums Live in New York? Yes — The Virginia Opossum

North America's Only Marsupial: In NY State

Yes. The Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana) ranges throughout New York State.

Habitat & Behavior

• Forests, farms, suburbs, NYC parks (Central Park, Bronx, Staten Island).
• Nocturnal, omnivorous scavengers: ticks, insects, rodents, fruit, garbage.
• Marsupial: tiny joeys develop in pouch (~2 months).
• "Playing possum": involuntary catatonia when threatened.

Benefits

• Eat ~5,000 ticks/season → reduce Lyme disease.
• Clean up carrion, fallen fruit, pests.
• Non-aggressive; rarely carry rabies (low body temp).

Coexistence Tips

• Secure trash, pet food.
• Close crawl spaces.
• Don't handle — they bite if cornered.
• Appreciate the free pest control.