Do Possums Hibernate In Winter?

Passing days are natural for possums. And it is totally realistic that they want to hibernate. It is a tempting idea that many animals in nature have mastered for survival. Possums, like other animals, face the challenges of winter. To survive the bitter cold and food shortages, they use a hibernation strategy. Curious about how possums hibernate in winter? Keep reading to find out about Do Possums Hibernate In Winter!

What is Hibernation For Possums?

Hibernation is a clever survival technique for animals to preserve energy. Usually occurring in the winter, however, it can also happen in other seasons. But you may get relief in households from the possum population. Lack of food and dropping temperatures are common triggers for this low-activity state. Hibernation is a fascinating phenomenon in possums. While not all animals hibernate, those that do have their own unique patterns. Before entering this deep sleep, possums take the opportunity to load up on food. By doing so, they accumulate enough fat reserves to sustain them throughout the winter months. And thanks to this habit of possums you can save money from getting possum removal in winter. 

Do Possums Hibernate In Winter

Hibernation is an amazing natural phenomenon where possums reduce their metabolic activity, entering a state of metabolic depression. This allows them to lower their heart rates, breathing rates, and body temperatures. By doing this, they can conserve their energy and survive in harsh conditions. When temperatures rise, possums emerge from hibernation and spring back into action and you may need to be aware again this time. 

Possums Hibernate Throughout The Winter

Possums have fascinating hibernation habits. And, you know the answer to Do Possums Hibernate In Winter? Some animals decide to hibernate throughout the winter, whereas others do not. Because they are indigenous to Australia and the nearby islands, possums have an extra special appeal to hibernate.

Possums are found in 69 different species in Australia. Among them, you can find an incredible array of fascinating and beautiful creatures.

  • Honey Possum (Tarsipes rostratus)
  • Common Brushtail Possum (Trichosurus vulpecula)
  • Mountain Pygmy Possum (Burramys parvus)
  • Common Ringtail Possum (Pseudocheirus peregrinus)
  • Scaly-Tailed Possum (Wyulda squamicaudata)

Out of the 69 species, only 4 pygmy possums actually hibernate in winter. These incredible creatures, such as the mountain and eastern pygmy possum, have adapted to survive the harsh conditions. While other possum species enter a state of torpor instead of true hibernation. These few species showcase the remarkable ability to endure and thrive during this challenging season. Possums, such as the honey possum and sugar glider possum, have fascinating behaviour patterns. While in torpor, they still maintain their normal eating and activities during specific times of the day. However, during hibernation, food consumption becomes rare or non-existent for them. Well, when they do not hibernate, they can disrupt your life by invading your place. So, what to do? Get expert help for local possum control safely. 

Possums Hibernate, But When?

Possums in Australia and surrounding islands have a unique hibernation habit. They seek shelter when temperatures drop and remain hidden until it warms up again. For example, the mountainous pygmy possum wants a hiding spot with temperatures between 1.5°C and 2.5°C. They ensure their survival during the winter seasons. Body temperature drops by several degrees. To do this, they can hide themselves in your place too. So, when it happens, you need to call a possum removal company for relocating them. 

What Are Possums’ Hibernation Preparations?

Possums are smart creatures. They instinctively know how to prepare for hibernation by increasing their food intake and finding a cozy spot to sleep. By eating more, they ensure that they have enough fat stores to sustain themselves throughout the long period of torpor. Interrupting hibernation can be fatal for possums. As they rely on stored fat and nutrients to survive without waking up for weeks or even months.

They search for warm spaces that will keep them from freezing, using materials that provide excellent insulation. They are capable of caring for themselves. Hibernating possums face significant risks from various predators such as tiger quolls, foxes, snakes, owls, dingoes, and cats. It is essential to ensure their safety during this vulnerable period. Finding the perfect hiding spot is crucial for keeping possums out of sight. To help them, you can contact any local pest management for possum relocation service. Let’s explore where possums typically hibernate.

Where Do Possums Spend The Winter With Hibernating Mood?

Possums are clever creatures that have found a unique way to survive the winter. They hibernate under rock piles, creating a cozy sanctuary up to 2-4 meters deep under the snow. The rocks act as natural heat absorbers, ensuring that the possums stay warm & comfortable even in their state of torpor. It is truly fascinating how nature provides ingenious solutions for animals to thrive in challenging environments.

The layer of snow that covers rocks during winter plays a crucial role in insulating them. This insulation is vital to protect possums from harsh cold temperatures; preventing premature waking and potential dangers such as hypothermia and starvation.

What Do Possums Do When They Hibernate?

Possums mainly sleep during hibernation, rarely waking to eat unless temperatures become too warm or cold. This behaviour is generally considered undesirable. In order for possums to survive in frigid conditions without food, it is crucial that the temperature remains consistently stable. If it doesn’t happen, you may have to deal with the possum population around your home or property. 

Possums Hibernate For How Long?

You get the answer to Do Possums Hibernate In Winter, now you may be curious about how they long hibernate. Possums may hibernate for astonishingly long periods of time from days to months. Some species, such as the mountain pygmy possum, have a hibernation period of up to seven months. However, the eastern pygmy possum takes this skill to another level by hibernating for an astonishing duration of up to one whole year. It is very amazing how they can survive such long periods of idleness.

The duration of hibernation for animals, such as possums, is often determined by external temperatures. When the weather turns warmer and food becomes more abundant, they emerge from their winter slumber in spring.

How Do You Know If a Possum Is Hibernating?

Hibernating possums may appear to be in a deep sleep, almost lifeless. They cleverly curl into a ball to conserve body heat and stay hidden from human eyes. It is a rare opportunity to witness these fascinating creatures in their natural hibernation state.

Hibernation is a crucial survival strategy for possums in Australia. Although they may appear cute while hibernating, it is crucial for their welfare. By entering into this state, possums can endure and overcome harsh environmental conditions that would otherwise be insurmountable. Or if anyhow, possums around your home skip the hibernating period, they may urge you to hire professional possum control services. 

Published on: August 1, 2023

Last updated on: August 3, 2023