Opossum

The opossum is North America’s only native marsupial, famous for “playing dead” as a defense mechanism. These nocturnal scavengers are opportunistic feeders, eating everything from insects to fruit to small animals. They are often included on varmint hunts as a novelty. With their hairless tails and sharp teeth, they’re an unusual but resilient part of many ecosystems.

Opossum hunts are typically run as guided, after-dark varmint outings on private ranchlands where these small, nocturnal marsupials are plentiful. Participants ride in trucks or ATVs with high-power lights or thermal optics to locate possums along fence lines, creek beds, and wooded edges, often taking shots at close to moderate range with rimfire rifles or shotguns. Hunts usually begin at dusk and continue into the night, with no bag limits on opossums and other invasive species such as raccoons, armadillos, and coyotes. These excursions provide ample shooting opportunities, are family-friendly, require minimal physical exertion, and often include all guide services and field dressing of game.

Opossum hunts are offered as self-guided, day-trip outings with no lodging or meals provided. Participants must arrange their own housing and bring personal sleeping gear, as there are no on-site beds or cots included. Heating and cooling amenities are not available, so hunters should plan equipment and clothing to suit the expected weather conditions.