Virginia opossums are generally slow and clumsy, but will show directional turns and run up to 7.4 kph when pursued to avoid being captured.
Virginia opossums have a reputation for being extremely slow and clumsy; however, they are known to show directional turns when pursued to avoid being captured.
Their quadrupedal plantigrade stance allows them to run 7.1 to 7.4 kilometers per hour. Likewise, Virginia opossums may also climb or swim to escape a perceived threat.
When threatened, these animals may hiss, growl or screech.
Sources: (Allen, Marchinton, & MacLentz, 1985; Christiansen, 2006; Hoffmeister, 2002; Holmes, 1992, December; Hossler, Kimble, 1997; Kolb and Wang, 1985; McAninch, & Harder, 1994; Kimble, 1997; Ladine & Kissell, Jr., 1994; McManus, 1974; McRuer & Jones, 2009; O’Connell, 2006; Pérez-Hernandez, R., Lew, D., & Solari, 2016; Siciliano, 2013; Wilemon, 2008)
Image: Normanack
