Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat
Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.
Virginia opossum
Scientific name: Didelphis virginiana
IUCN Status: Least Concern
Family: DIDELPHIDAE
Group: Säugetiere
Shyness: Tolerant
Safe distance: 10 m
Breeding season / Courtship: 02.02-31.10
Gestation: 12-14 jours
Births: 01.03-30.11
Habitat:
Forests, fields and suburban areas
Description:
The Virginia opossum is North America’s only marsupial, 40–60 cm long (excluding tail) and weighing 2–6 kg, with grey fur and a long prehensile tail. An opportunistic omnivore, it inhabits forests, fields, and suburban areas, feeding on fruits, insects, small vertebrates, and carrion. Solitary and nocturnal, it moves slowly on the ground and climbs trees with ease.
Recommended lens:
>=300 mm
Photography tips:
Photograph the Virginia opossum at night or dusk using a telephoto lens of ≥300 mm from a concealed low hide. Use a fast shutter speed to freeze movement, a sturdy tripod, and high ISO to handle low light. Remain silent and still to avoid disturbing it.
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