answersLogoWhite

0

Possums are not classed as "carnivorous". Generally, true possums, which are those found in Australia and on some islands of the Oceania region, prefer to eat fruit, nectar and young shoots, flowers and leaves.

Many species are insectivorous, and some do occasionally eat small reptiles.

There is one exception, and that is the Brushtail possum, which is not native to New Zealand but introduced from Australia. It has adapted quite differently to its environment. It has become a devastating pest in that country, feeding on native birds of New Zealand. It has been pictured multiple times feasting on eggs/chicks and birds.

This pest is also known to eat native New Zealand snails, and frogs. The impact on NZ wildlife has resulted in totally wiping out some species of native birds since their introduction from Australia to NZ (for the Fur Trade) in 1837.

Changes in the environment for the sugar glider (a small, gliding possum) have resulted in it sometimes being observed as a meat-eater, even though in its native state it feeds exclusively on insects, fruits, nectar and sap. These delicate little creatures are being kept as exotic pets overseas. The stress of being kept in small cages rather than free, and the imbalance in their diet from people who do not understand the needs of these creatures has resulted in them gaining a reputation for eating their young.

The Virginian opossum, which is commonly shortened to "possum" even though the two species are quite unrelated, is truly omnivorous, eating a great variety of meats and vegetation.

User Avatar

Wiki User

14y ago

What else can I help you with?