Are Opossums Immune to Rabies and Snake Bites?
Opossums are subject to a lot of rumors, and the idea that these critters are immune to rabies AND snake bites! But is this true? Well, like with most things, the answer is a bit more complicated than a simple yes or no.
Are Opossums Immune to Rabies?
Opossums aren’t 100% immune to rabies, however their lower-than-average body temperature makes it very difficult for rabies to survive within their bodies. Still, this doesn’t mean you should go around petting every opossum you see, as it’s still possible for them to transmit rabies, or more likely, other diseases like leptospirosis, tuberculosis, tularemia, and Chagas disease.
Are Opossums Immune to Snake Bites?
Opossums are generally immune to the venom in most venomous snake bites in North America, allowing them to feast on dangerous snakes like copperheads and water moccasins. Opossums have a special protein in their blood called Opossum Venom Neutralizing Factor (OVNF) which binds to and neutralizes the toxins in snake venom, preventing these toxins from harming the opossum. However, snake bites can still kill opossums through physical injury to critical organs.
Opossum Removal in Hampton Roads
While the notion of an opossum being able to withstand both rabies and a rattlesnake bite is awe-inspiring, that doesn’t necessarily mean you want these critters on your property. Opossums can rip out and soil your attic insulation, knock over your trash cans, and spread diseases and parasites like ticks and fleas. Don’t worry, Summit Environmental Solutions can help. Our team offers safe, humane opossum trapping and removal services in Virginia Beach, Newport News, Norfolk, Hampton, and Chesapeake. Contact our team to get started today with a FREE estimate at 757-901-4455!