What animal acts dead?

The opossum is an animal that acts dead when threatened. This behavior is known as thanatosis or "playing dead". When an opossum perceives danger, it will fall to the ground, stiffen its body, and close its eyes. It will also release a foul-smelling fluid from its anal glands. This combination of behaviors serves to deter predators, who are often disgusted or confused by the opossum's apparent death. Thanatosis is a successful defense mechanism for opossums, as it allows them to avoid being eaten by predators.