The Government of Alberta keeps an updated list of controlled animals.

This is a list of all the species that you can not own easily, if at all.

Some are completely restricted, while most could be kept only by zoos and other specially licensed animal welfare agencies.

Are possums on the list? Can I have a pet possum legally in Alberta?

Can you own a pet possum in Alberta?

Possums have been added to the Alberta controlled animals document.

This means you can not own a possum as a pet in Alberta.

In fact the Opossum is listed as the very first animal.

Review the entire controlled species list here

What is the Difference Between Possum and Opossum?

The difference lies primarily in the geographical and linguistic variations between North America and Australia, where the animals are found.

In North America, the term “opossum” refers to the Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana), a marsupial native to the region.

It is commonly referred to simply as an “opossum.”

The Virginia opossum is the only marsupial found in North America and is known for its distinctive appearance, including a hairless tail, a long snout, and a remarkable ability to play dead when threatened.

While most people in Alberta may use the term “possum” it is the Virginia Opossum that is listed as a controlled animal.

On the other hand, the term “possum” is often used to refer to a completely different group of animals, namely the marsupials belonging to the suborder Phalangeriformes found in Australia, New Guinea, and nearby islands.

This group includes several species, such as the common brushtail possum and the sugar glider.

So, in the context of Alberta’s laws regarding controlled animals, it is important to recognize that both possums (referring to Australian marsupials) and opossums (referring to North American marsupials) are prohibited from being owned as pets.

The legislation covers a broad range of animals to ensure the protection of native wildlife, prevent the spread of diseases, and maintain the ecological balance of the region

In Summary

• The Opossum is listed as a controlled animal in Alberta.
• Controlled animals can not be owned as pets, and can only be acquired with special licensing and permissions. Usually zoos and accredited animal welfare organizations.
• Possums and Opposums are often used interchangeably, but it is technically the opossum that is listed officially in the controlled animals list.