There are about 60 species of opossums in this order. They are marsupials and most are the size of a house cat. Most of them are gray or brown in color and live in Central and South America. One species, the Virginia opossum, is found in North America. Opossums have a prehensile tail and some, but not all, have a pouch. A prehensile tail can curl around things. Most species are
omnivorous, but some species are carnivorous. Most opossums are nomadic and don't have a permanent den or burrow. They roam from place to place in search of food. Most species are able to climb trees. There is one family in this order.
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