Toad in a Jar's Guide to Possum

The opossum, North America's only marsupial, often evokes mixed reactions. While some may find them endearing, others, particularly hunters and trappers, view them with disdain. However, opossums are fascinating creatures with a rich history and culinary potential. This guide will explore various methods for hunting and trapping opossums, provide detailed instructions on how to prepare them for cooking, and offer some delicious recipes to try.

Part 1: Hunting Opossums

Opossums can be hunted using several methods, each with its own challenges and rewards. Here are three popular techniques:

• Method 1: Hunting with Dogs

  While traditionally used for raccoons, hounds can also be trained to hunt opossums. The dogs track the scent of the opossum and corner it, allowing the hunter to dispatch it quickly. This method requires well-trained dogs and a good understanding of their behavior.

• Method 2: Baiting at Night

  Opossums are nocturnal animals, making them susceptible to baiting at night. Set up a bait station with a strong-smelling attractant, such as overripe fruit or meat scraps. You can use a green or red light, or a night vision/infrared scope to spot the opossum as it approaches the bait. Patience is key with this method, as opossums can be unpredictable.

• Method 3: Hitting the Bush

  This method involves actively searching for opossums in their natural habitat. Look for signs of opossum activity, such as droppings and tracks, to identify potential hiding spots. Opossums often seek shelter in rock ledges, briar patches, old cars, exposed tree roots, and other secluded areas. Once you've located a potential den, use a stick or your hands to rustle the surrounding vegetation and flush out the opossum. A shotgun or bow is recommended for this method, as it allows for quick and humane kills in dense cover.

Part 2: Trapping Opossums

Trapping is an effective and efficient way to catch opossums. Various traps can be used, including long spring traps, coil spring traps, cage traps, and body grip traps.

• Trap Placement and Baiting

  Place traps near areas with high opossum activity, such as trails, feeding sites, and den entrances. Use a strong-smelling bait, such as leftover game meat or fish, to lure the opossum into the trap. Secure the bait to a nearby tree or stake to prevent the opossum from dragging it away. Dig a shallow bed for the trap and position it 3-6 inches away from the bait, ensuring that the opossum steps on the trap pan while attempting to reach the bait.

• Trap Types

  • #11 Long Spring Traps: These traps are a popular choice for opossums due to their size and effectiveness.
  • 1# Coil Spring Traps: Coil spring traps offer a more humane trapping option, as they quickly kill the opossum upon capture.
  • Cage Traps: Cage traps capture opossums alive, allowing for release or relocation if desired.
  • Body Grip Traps: Body grip traps are designed to kill the opossum instantly by crushing its neck or chest.

Part 3: Preparing Opossums for Cooking

Once you've harvested an opossum, it's essential to prepare it properly for cooking.

• Skinning and Gland Removal

  Case skinning is the recommended method for skinning opossums. It involves carefully separating the skin from the carcass, starting at the hind legs and working towards the head. The glands, located near the base of the tail, should be removed to avoid imparting a strong, musky flavor to the meat. Several online tutorials provide detailed instructions on skinning and gland removal.

• Soaking

  Soaking the opossum meat in saltwater, buttermilk, or liquid smoke helps to tenderize it and remove any residual gaminess. The soaking time can vary depending on the recipe and personal preference.

Part 4: Cooking Opossums

Opossum meat is versatile and can be used in various dishes. Here's a popular recipe to get you started:

• Shredded Opossum

  1. Debone the opossum legs and place them in a crockpot.
  2. Add 6 cups of chicken broth, 2 teaspoons of paprika, 1 tablespoon of onion powder, and 2 teaspoons of garlic powder.
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Cook on low for 8 hours or until the meat falls apart.
  5. Shred the meat and use it in your favorite recipes, such as BBQ, pot pie, hoagies, curry, chili, or stir-fry.

Part 5: Addressing Misconceptions about Opossums

Opossums often face negative stereotypes due to their scavenging habits and appearance. However, these misconceptions are largely unfounded. Opossums play a vital role in the ecosystem by controlling rodent populations, consuming carrion, and dispersing seeds. Their scavenging behavior is similar to that of lobsters and crawfish, which are considered delicacies. The negative perception of opossums stems from their association with poverty and rural living, but their culinary potential should not be overlooked.

Conclusion

Opossums are fascinating creatures that offer a unique hunting, trapping, and culinary experience. By following the guidelines and recipes provided in this guide, you can appreciate the versatility and deliciousness of opossum meat. Remember to always hunt and trap responsibly, ensuring the sustainability of opossum populations for future generations.

Bibliography

• Gibbons, J. W. (2003). The Ecology of the Opossum (Didelphis virginiana) and Other Non-volant Mammals on Sapelo Island, Georgia. American Midland Naturalist, 149(2), 245–254.
• McManus, J. J. (1974). Didelphis virginiana. Mammalian Species, (40), 1–6.
• Petrides, G. A. (1949). The opossum in Michigan. The Journal of Mammalogy, 30(2), 157–165.

This article was written by Toad in a Jar, who has been hunting, fishing, and trapping since I was 12 walking out into the woods with my daisy power line 880 trying to get anything that cooked up nicely! Check out his bio on the "About Us" Page.