Facts about animals

Difference Between Ferret Vs. Possum

 
Matthew Nesbitt
By Matthew Nesbitt, Writer and researcher. November 3, 2024
Difference Between Ferret Vs. Possum

The ferret and the possum are different species, but they share similarities which mean some of us may confuse one for the other. They are both mammals that have slender bodies and narrowed faces. Their markings will depend on species, but they can both have dark and light patches on different parts of their body. We limit our comparison of the difference between ferret vs. possum to those found naturally in North America, specifically the black-footed ferret (Mustela nigripes) and the Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana). thedailyECO looks at these two species closely to see their similarities and differences.

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Contents
  1. What is a ferret?
  2. What is a possum?
  3. Differences between ferrets vs. possums
  4. Similarities between ferrets vs. possums

What is a ferret?

Ferrets are type of mustelid, specifically of the genus Mustela which are known collectively as weasels. In North America, the only species of ferret which can be found are the domestic ferret (Mustela furo) or the black-footed ferret (Mustela nigripes). The domestic ferret has grown in popularity as a domestic pet, but only the black-footed ferret is native to North America alone.

Also known as the American polecat, the black-footed ferret is very similar in appearance to the common European polecat (Mustela putorius). It is from the European species that the domestic ferret is derived, explaining their similarity in appearance. As with all weasels, the black-footed ferret has a long body with short legs. They have black markings on the face, legs and tail, but the rest of the body is yellowish white.

Black-footed ferrets are very territorial and can be very aggressive if they feel cornered. They are known to carry out a behavior known as the weasel war dance. During this display, the ferret jumps around excitedly, likely as a means to deter any potential predators. They are a very able predator themselves, feeding mainly on rodents, 90% of which are prairie dogs. For this reason, they are often known as prairie dog hunters.

Since prairie dogs are such a large part of their diet, they are known to live in habitats which both share. Unsurprisingly, this includes shortgrass prairie lands, as well as other types of prairie and steppes. They live in burrows, but do not make their own. Instead, they raise their young in the burrows of the prairie dogs they kill. Since they depend on them so much, drops in prairie dog populations due to habitat loss and other factors have caused black-footed ferrets to be considered endangered in the wild.

You can learn more about a group of animals to which ferrets belong with our article asking what are plantigrade animals?

Difference Between Ferret Vs. Possum - What is a ferret?

What is a possum?

Despite sharing some similarities, the possum is a very different animal. Although they are called possum in North America, this animal is actually an opossum. Specifically, they are the Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana). They can vary according to size, but they all have a slender body with a long tail. Generally speaking, they can weigh between 4.2-6.2 lb (1.8-2.8 kg) and can measure up to 22" (54 cm), not including the tail.

The fur of a possum is grayish brown on their body, but their faces are mostly white. Some individuals may have darker patches on the face, making them resemble ferrets at a distance. They are known for having opposable thumbs, making them very dexterous and able to manipulate their environment with ease.

Opossum populations are very widespread across the US. They tend to have their greater distributions in the eastern United States, but they can be found as far north as Canada and have some populations on the northwest coast. These latter populations are believed to have been introduced during the Great Depression.

We explained that ferrets have a very particular behavior when faced with predators. Possums also have their own, but it is diametrically opposite. Instead of lunging around, possums play ‘dead’. When they are faced with a potential predator, they drop to the ground and stop moving. Their tongue lolls out of their mouth, their paws clench and they even release a putrid smell from their anus, further deterring other animals. This is known as thanatosis.

Unlike the carnivorous ferret, possums are omnivorous. They eat eggs, carrion, fish, reptiles, birds, other mammals and plants. However, the main part of their diet is insects and ticks. While they traditionally inhabit woodland areas, they are increasingly moving nearer to human settlements. Due to their dexterity, they can easily break into homes and are often found sheltering in roofs and other hideaways.

Learn about types of flying mammals in our related guide.

Difference Between Ferret Vs. Possum - What is a possum?

Differences between ferrets vs. possums

Although weasels and possums may look similar at first glance, there are many differences between the two in terms of their physical characteristics, behavior and biology. Some of the main differences between ferrets vs. possums include:

  • Classification and family: as mentioned above, ferrets and possums have completely different taxonomies. Ferrets are mustelids and a type of weasel. Possums are marsupials of the order Didelphimorphia.
  • Body: ferrets are very long and slender with small paws. Their tail is covered in fur and they have distinct black markings on a yellowish body. Possums are also long, but they are less slender. Their tail is pink and hairless. It is also prehensile, allowing them to hang down from tree limbs and other places of purchase. Their paws are very dexterous and have opposable thumbs.
  • Habitat: ferrets live in prairies or steppes with open scrubland. They inhabit burrows which they steal from other animals. Possums live in wooded areas, but they can also live near human settlements. Black-footed ferrets do not come in contact with humans very often, although domestic ferrets do live with them.
  • Feeding habits: the ferret is primarily carnivorous, feeding on small mammals and other animals. The possum is omnivorous and its diet includes fruits, insects, eggs and carrion. This dietary variety allows it to adapt to diverse ecosystems, including urban areas.
  • Reproduction and care of offspring: another crucial difference lies in the reproductive system. Ferrets have a placental development similar to that of other mammals. Being marsupials, possums develop their offspring inside a pouch. These are born prematurely and complete their development inside the pouch (marsupium) until they are mature enough to leave.
  • Defense habits: when they feel in danger, ferrets often try to escape or hide in their burrows. Possums use thanatosis (tonic immobility), pretending to be dead to avoid attack by predators.
  • Conservation: black-footed ferrets are considered endangered due to a loss of habitat and reduction of prairie dog populations. Possums are very numerous and are considered of ‘least concern’. You are much more likely to encounter a possum in the wild than a black-footed ferret.

Take a look at some other mammals with very distinct characteristics with our article asking is the platypus a mammal or a bird?

Difference Between Ferret Vs. Possum - Differences between ferrets vs. possums

Similarities between ferrets vs. possums

Despite their differences, ferrets and possums also share some similarities. We look at some of the most important similarities between possums vs. ferrets here:

  • Social dynamic: both ferrets and possums are considered solitary animals. They are rarely found together in groups and only tend to meet others of their species when it is time to reproduce. This helps them to conserve resources for themselves and their offspring.
  • Nocturnal habits: both ferrets and possums are considered nocturnal animals, being most active during the night. This helps them to hunt and forage, respectively. Their eyes and other senses are adapted to these low-light conditions.
  • Burrows: although possums are more adaptable and can live in various shelters, both ferrets and possums can live in burrows. They use these burrows and other shelters for protection.
  • Dietary habits: while ferrets are carnivorous, both will adapt their diet during times of need. This means they can eat other sources of food when necessary to stay alive.

Now that you know the difference between a ferret and a possum, you may want to learn what are differences between rats and mice.

If you want to read similar articles to Difference Between Ferret Vs. Possum, we recommend you visit our Facts about animals category.

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Difference Between Ferret Vs. Possum