This Alligator Blocks a Runaway Possum’s Escape

When we think of fierce animals, our minds go to massive lions, hippos, or crocodiles. However, let’s not forget that some of the smaller animals, such as African wild dogs, big birds, and baby predators, can also pack quite a punch. Don’t ever underestimate the little guy! Let’s see just what this small gator does in the video below.

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Alligator Hungry for Possum in Florida

The Facebook reel posted in the section above takes us to Florida. This is where a hungry alligator is seen hunting for a possum. Alligators can be found in plenty in Florida, as their population is well over a million in just this state alone. The Roaring Earth Facebook reposted this video. Their channel shares various content of animals such as monkeys, sharks, sloths, snow leopards, hippos, African wild dogs, and alligators. 

Possum Trying to Escape 

As the video above starts out we are taken to Lakeland in Florida. This small lakefront has a field of green grass where this person is filming. They see a possum (Phalangeriforme) that is scurrying around the yard. Likely looking for things to eat. 

Possums are omnivore eaters. According to the Connecticut government, their “diet consists mainly of insects, worms, carrion (dead animals), reptiles, amphibians, birds and their eggs, crustaceans, berries, fruits, and small mammals.” 

However, he didn’t realize that he was the one being hunted. Suddenly, a small alligator comes flying out of the lake, and the possum takes off. However, it made the mistake of stopping and turning around. He likely did not see this alligator as a threat because of how small it was. But this alligator showed tremendous strength, despite his size. And dragged him off to drown him in the lake.

How Fast Can Possums Run?

As we can see from the video above, this little possum was alerted to the presence of this alligator. And he quickly was able to run off. However, according to the Nashville Wildlife Removal, “With a speed of about 3.5 miles per hour when running, Possums can use their speed to jump and run up trees quickly.” 

The American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) can run up to speeds of 30 miles per hour! So, had this possum not stopped and been able to jump up a nearby tree, it would have been safe. But, he allowed his assumption of thinking this alligator wasn’t a threat to stop him. 

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Deborah Ferrin/Shutterstock.com