The Virginia Opossum, commonly known as the North American opossum, is the only marsupial found in North America. They are about the size of a terrier dog, with a long tail, black ears, slender snout, and five toes on each foot. Females contain a pouch for young developed during breeding season.

Opossums are primarily inhabitants of deciduous woodlands but are found just about everywhere in Texas. Hollow trees and logs are preferred sites, but opossums will den in woodpiles, rock piles, under buildings, in attics, and in underground burrows. The opossum is strictly nocturnal, venturing forth to feed shortly after dark. It feeds on a variety of foods, including rats, mice, young rabbits, birds, insects, frogs, fruits, and vegetables.

Their mating season extends from January/February to June/July, producing up to two litters a year. Litter size can vary from 5 to 21 young, each weighing about 3 grains (one-fifth of a gram or 0.0004 pounds). Blind, nearly helpless, and no larger than a honeybee, they crawl unaided into the mother's pouch. There they remain, attached to a nipple, for about 7 weeks.

If you find a baby opossum, please contact us for assistance. The mother will usually not return for the young. If you come across a dead opossum on the side of the road with intact babies, please leave the young undisturbed and contact us for further instruction. We will typically request bringing the adult and babies together to ensure proper care.