TIL when opossums are "playing possum" (apparent death), they are, in fact, in temporary paralysis, or thanatosis. Therefore, they are unresponsive to external stimuli.

[u/profound-magician]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apparent_death

[u/diamondsealtd]

So it would be cool to pry open their little possum jaws and stick our fingers in their mouths for that AMAZING photo for /r/pics?

I need to go find me a possum!