Is there a difference between an opossum and a possum? this time, in Australia?

Question

i've asked this assuming you guys have answered for North America...correct me if i'm wrong.

Answer 1

Opossums (Didelphis virginiana) are not Australian. Australian possums such as the Common Ringtail (Pseudocheirus peregrinus) and the Common Brushtail (Trichosurus caninus) were incorrectly called possums by early explorers due to their similarities to the American opossum. Their similarities begin and end with the fact that they are all marsupials that have a proper marsupium (pouch). Their diet, location, etc... are quite different.
Here's a website for the opossum... http://www.opossumsocietyus.org/opossum.html
And here's one for the Australian Possum
www.marsupialsociety.org

Answer 2

Opossum is the 'correct' term for the New World marsupials, including the Virginia opossum which reaches North America, as well as several related opossums that live in South America.

In Australia, there is another group of marsupials, not very closely related to the New World opossums, but often occupying similar ecological niches. These critters are usually referred to as possums.

Confusing the issue is the fact that, especially in North America, possum is also used as a colloquial term to refer to the Virginia opossum.

So there is a difference between opossums and possums (opossums being New World, possums being Australian), AND opossums and possums can be the same thing (if you're referring to the Virginia opossum).

This is why scientists hate common names.

Answer 3

I actually Dont know the difference. I grew up with the Opossum and what I have noticed is people cant spell it and tend to leave the "O" off I live in the US

Answer 4

I call them possums for short, they really are called opossums.

Answer 5

There aren't any opossums in Australia.

Possum is slang for opossom. They are one and the same (and very, very mean critters).

Answer 6

There are none in Australia.