Opossums do not hibernate. Opossums are solitary animals, and except during breeding season or a female with her young, they are rarely seen together. Adapted from the book Wild Neighbors. Not by choice. There are several things you can do to prevent drownings. If unable to climb out then the opossums will drown. Opossums enjoy swimming although they prefer to be on I wanted to make sure that if any other opossums decided to have a swim in my pool that they would be able to survive. Although they can climb and are good swimmers, opossums prefer to amble about on the ground. A gentle wild neighbor, the opossum is our only backyard marsupial and is rarely guilty of more than "playing 'possum." Opossums can swim, and they are very good at swimming. Not by choice. What to do about opossums. Answer:  Many opossums fall into a pool as they attempt to drink water. If possible, keep swimming pools and hot tubs covered at night. Opossums get a bum rap. Possums can swim, but it is not one of their favoured activities. Possums can swim, but it is not one of their favoured activities. Share.