Opossums, when they play dead, can emit an odor that resembles the scent of rotting carrion. This behavior is a defensive mechanism known as
thanatosis or "playing possum." When threatened or cornered, opossums may go limp, fall to the ground, open their mouth, and emit a foul-smelling liquid from their anal glands. This odor, resembling that of decaying flesh, is believed to deter predators, as many animals prefer fresh prey over carrion.
