Opossum and Raccoon Poop Comparison: Key Differences in Shape, Size, and Content

Key differences in appearance

• Shape and size:

  • Opossum droppings: Cylindrical with tapered ends, 1-3 inches long, 0.5-1 inch wide
  • Raccoon scat: Similar size but with blunt ends, 2-3 inches long, 1/2 inch diameter

• Texture and contents:

  • Opossum poop: Smoother, often contains undigested food bits like seeds or insect parts
  • Raccoon droppings: Contains fur, bone fragments, seeds, and berries

• Color and appearance:

  • Opossum: Dark brown to black, shiny
  • Raccoon: Similar color, but can vary from black to red due to diet

• Quantity and location:

  • Opossum: 2-3 logs per pile, scattered throughout the area
  • Raccoon: 1-2 logs per pile, often in denser clusters near denning sites

Health and safety considerations

• Parasite risk: Both opossum and raccoon droppings can carry parasites and diseases transmissible to humans and pets

• Common parasites:

  • Opossum: May carry protozoa (e.g., Toxoplasma gondii), helminths, and arthropods
  • Raccoon: Can carry roundworm and leptospirosis

• Odor: Raccoon scat may have a strong musky odor

Identification tips

• Location: Both are often found under fruit trees, in gardens, or near trash cans

• Behavior patterns:

  • Opossums: Nomadic, no centralized toilet area
  • Raccoons: Create communal latrine sites they return to repeatedly

• Associated signs:

  • Opossums: May enlarge holes in attics due to opposable thumbs
  • Raccoons: Can open garbage cans with dexterous hands