What happened to this strawberry?
This strawberry was eaten by a possum, or more accurately, opossum. Opossums are the only marsupial native to the US. They are another common wildlife pest that loves strawberries, though unlike deer, they prefer the fruit. In this field they left tracks on several rows of plastic while they foraged. This grower has a mesh electric fence up to keep opossums out of the field, though every once in a while they find a way to squeeze under.
Opossums have a very diverse diet including carrion, insects, fruits, seeds, bulbs, and various vertebrate critters. You may have heard that opossums are great to have around because they eat a large number of ticks each year. While they do serve a role in the ecosystem, it’s been found that their appetite for ticks is just a rumor. Here are a couple other fun facts about opossums:
- While not immune, opossums rarely carry rabies.
- Young opossums play dead when threatened. Adults rarely do this. They are more likely to hiss and show their teeth.
- George Jones was nicknamed “Possum.”
Read more about opossums here.
This week’s question is from Justin Ballew, Extension Fruit and Vegetable Research Associate.
The South Carolina Grower 