Susie, have you never heard the old saying "Playing Possum"? The only thing that you need to immobilize or capture a possum is a broom. Just 'tickle' the possum vigorously around the head and shoulders with the business end of a straw broom. He or she will sull-up or begin playing like a possum or playing dead. Here is how the state of Washington describes 'playing possum"
The opossum is a slow runner and when threatened will usually growl, hiss, and bare its teeth or try to escape by climbing the nearest tree. However, when caught out in the daylight with little chance of escape, or when attacked, the opossum will “play possum.” This is a surprisingly effective defense commonly seen in insects. In such cases the opossum will fall on its side, curl its body, open its drooling mouth, and excrete droppings—all to give the appearance of being dead.
While the opossum is in this state, which lasts several minutes or several hours, no amount of prodding will produce a response. Though it appears to be in a catatonic state, its metabolic processes are as high as when the animal is fully alert.
When the opossum believes the danger has passed, it will begin to wiggle its ears in an effort to pick up sounds. If it thinks the danger has passed, it will pick up its head and look around. If danger persists, the opossum will play dead again.
Now once the possum is sulled he will appear for all intents and porpoises like he is dead. You may then pick him up by his prehensile tail and carry him around like a furry handbag.
