A possum's reaction to its reflection in the mirror

Today, 05:55

An opossum accidentally stumbled upon a mirror among the trash, became frightened, and feigned death.

A clear example of how an opossum feigns death when it senses danger.

This behavior is called thanatosis—a defensive reaction in which the animal enters a state of tonic immobility.

The opossum falls on its side, freezes with its mouth and eyes open, its body temperature drops, and its breathing and heartbeat almost cease.

To convince its enemy of its "death," it even secretes a foul-smelling fluid from its anal glands.

0
Add your comment
  • bowtiesmilelaughingblushsmileyrelaxedsmirk
    heart_eyeskissing_heartkissing_closed_eyesflushedrelievedsatisfiedgrin
    winkstuck_out_tongue_winking_eyestuck_out_tongue_closed_eyesgrinningkissingstuck_out_tonguesleeping
    worriedfrowninganguishedopen_mouthgrimacingconfusedhushed
    expressionlessunamusedsweat_smilesweatdisappointed_relievedwearypensive
    disappointedconfoundedfearfulcold_sweatperseverecrysob
    joyastonishedscreamtired_faceangryragetriumph
    sleepyyummasksunglassesdizzy_faceimpsmiling_imp
    neutral_faceno_mouthinnocent

You might be interested in:
Registration