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They do so because their predators do not eat animals that are already dead and so they fool the predator into believing that they are dead.

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15y ago

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What body part of the opossum used for protection?

An opossum plays dead for protection against enemies


What happens when an opossum gets attacked?

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What is a small marsupial that plays dead to avoid capture?

An opossum will do that.


WHEN an opossum plays dead is it an instinctlearned behavior acquired charerestic or abdabtation?

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What happens chemically when the opossum plays dead?

When an opossum plays dead, a response known as thanatosis occurs, triggered by extreme stress or fear. Chemically, the opossum's body releases high levels of stress hormones like cortisol, which can induce a state of paralysis and a drop in heart rate. This mimics death, causing the animal to become limp and unresponsive, while also producing a foul-smelling secretion from its glands to deter predators. This strategy effectively makes the opossum less appealing to threats until the danger passes.


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