Typically, the opossum is not an aggressive animal. When threatened, an opossum will first attempt to run away. Once cornered, it will respond ferociously by growling, hissing and showing its teeth in a gaping "grin." It will then begin to drool and may pass a thin, watery stool. If this has not succeeded in scaring off the threat, the possum's next "weapon" in its defense arsenal is to feign death. This reaction appears to be involuntary and is triggered by extreme fear.

The possum falls over on its side, body stiff. The mouth and eyes are open, the tongue hangs out. Drooling, its breathing slows and becomes shallow. Leaking a watery fluid from its anus and emitting an odor putrid to most predators, the possum enters a state of near coma, which can last up to four hours. Playing possum, faking death, is a defense that discourages many animals who eat live prey and convinces others that the "carcass" is too foul to eat. After the predator has left, the possum happily revives and ambles away.

A female with young is unable to play possum which allows her to stay alert and able to defend her babies.

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Great cartoon on sea turtle rescue. Join Timmy and his tutor, Miss Rita, as they learn a little about sea turtle rescue.

The Virginia Opossum is the only marsupial native to North America. A marsupial is an animal with a short gestation period that gives birth to pre-mature babies who continue developing in the mother's pouch. They do not have placentas. The opossum's name is derived from the Algonquin word 'apasum', which means 'white animal.' The name 'opossum' was first used by Captain John Smith in 1608.Colloquially, it is also called "possum," but should not be confused with the Australian Possum.

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A baby Chimney Swift has fallen and you want to return it to the nest. If you live in a one-story house, Pamela Bayne, director of the Triangle Wildlife Rehabilitation Clinic, recommends the following:

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The choice nesting spot for a Chimney Swift is a large hollow tree. As humans encroach on their natural habitat, Chimney Swifts have adapted by nesting in chimneys. During the summer months, often in July, you may hear chattering in your chimney. These sounds may be coming from a nest of Chimney Swifts.

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