The short answer is: no, there are no native possums in Colorado. While you might hear anecdotal stories or even see a photo, these sightings are almost certainly of escaped or released pets, not a thriving wild population. Let's delve deeper into why this is the case and address some common misconceptions.
What Types of Possums Exist?
Before we definitively answer whether possums call Colorado home, it's important to understand that "possum" refers to several marsupial species. The most commonly known in North America is the Virginia opossum ( Didelphis virginiana). This is the species often depicted in cartoons and popular culture. There are other possum species found in Central and South America, but these are not relevant to the question of possums in Colorado.
Why Aren't Virginia Opossums Found in Colorado?
The absence of Virginia opossums in Colorado boils down to several environmental factors:
- Climate: Colorado's climate, particularly the higher elevations and harsh winters, is simply unsuitable for Virginia opossums. They prefer warmer, more humid environments. The cold winters would be deadly to them.
- Habitat: The landscape of Colorado, with its extensive mountainous terrain and relatively sparse vegetation in many areas, doesn't provide the ideal habitat for these animals. They thrive in wooded areas with access to water and plenty of cover.
- Geographic Barriers: Natural geographic barriers, such as the Rocky Mountains, have historically prevented the natural expansion of Virginia opossum populations into Colorado.
What About Sightings of Possums in Colorado?
While extremely rare, occasional sightings are reported. These instances are almost always explained by:
- Escaped Pets: Someone may have had a pet opossum that escaped or was released.
- Misidentification: Other animals, like raccoons or even certain rodents, might be mistaken for opossums by those unfamiliar with the subtle differences.
What animals might be mistaken for possums in Colorado?
Several animals native to Colorado could be confused with possums:
- Raccoons: These are common in Colorado and share some physical similarities with possums, particularly in size and general body shape.
- Skunks: Like raccoons, skunks are prevalent in Colorado and could be mistaken for a possum at a distance. However, their distinctive scent makes proper identification relatively straightforward.
Can Possums Survive in Colorado's Winter?
No, Virginia opossums lack the adaptations necessary to survive Colorado's harsh winters. Their thin fur and lack of significant fat reserves would make them highly vulnerable to freezing temperatures and snow.
Are There Efforts to Introduce Possums to Colorado?
There are no known efforts to introduce or establish a population of Virginia opossums in Colorado. Conservation efforts focus on native species and preserving the existing ecosystem.
In conclusion, while anecdotal evidence of possums in Colorado exists, it's overwhelmingly likely that these are isolated instances of escaped pets or misidentified animals. The environmental conditions and geographic factors make it highly improbable that a self-sustaining population of Virginia opossums could ever establish itself in Colorado.
