Finding a baby opossum prompts questions about its well-being. Accurately determining its age is important for understanding developmental needs and deciding on appropriate care. Knowing its age helps assess if it is truly orphaned or can survive independently, guiding the right assistance.
Age-Specific Physical Characteristics
Baby opossums, called joeys, are born remarkably underdeveloped, weighing around 0.13 grams. At birth, they are blind, deaf, and hairless, immediately crawling into their mother’s pouch to attach to a teat. They remain firmly attached for 2 to 2.5 months, developing within the protective pouch.
Around 55 to 70 days old, when roughly the size of a mouse, a baby opossum’s eyes begin to open. They start to develop dark, smooth fur and may venture out of the pouch for short periods, often clinging to their mother’s back.
By two months, joeys become too large for the pouch and transition to riding on the mother’s back. At three months, they are 5 to 6 inches long (excluding tail) with longer, greyish-white fur. They are also weaned around this age.
At four to five months, young opossums are sub-adults and nearly fully grown. They measure 6 to 8 inches long from nose to rump (excluding tail) and have puffy, greyish-white fur resembling a miniature adult. An opossum of this size is generally independent and does not require human intervention unless injured or ill.
Behavioral Indicators of Age
Young opossums with closed eyes are entirely dependent on their mother. Once their eyes open (around 55 to 70 days), they become more active, exploring surroundings and clinging to their mother while she forages.
As they grow, young opossums transition to independent exploration. By three months, they are weaned and begin finding their own food, though they may still travel with their mother. If separated, a young opossum might make sneezing sounds to call its mother, who responds with clicking sounds.
Immediate Steps After Assessing Age
After assessing a baby opossum’s age, determine if it needs human intervention. If the opossum is at least 7 inches long (excluding tail) and appears healthy, it is generally independent. Observe from a distance for one to two hours, as it might be temporarily separated or self-sufficient.
If the opossum is smaller than 7 inches (excluding tail), or shows signs of injury, illness, or distress (e.g., bleeding, cold, crying), immediate assistance is required. Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or rescue organization. These professionals provide specialized care, as it is often illegal for unlicensed individuals to keep wild animals.
While awaiting professional help, provide temporary shelter by placing the opossum in a warm, dark, quiet box lined with soft rags. Ensure the container has air holes and a secure lid, as opossums are adept climbers. Do not offer food or water, as improper feeding can cause severe harm or be fatal.
Safety and Distinguishing Opossums from Possums
Approaching any wild animal requires caution for human and animal safety. Always wear gloves when handling a baby opossum to protect against bites, scratches, and disease. Avoid direct contact with bodily fluids and keep children and pets away. Remain calm and avoid startling the animal, as wild animals can be unpredictable.
The terms “possum” and “opossum” are often used interchangeably, but they refer to distinct marsupial groups. The North American species is correctly called an “opossum,” specifically the Virginia opossum. These opossums have a white face, gray body fur, pink feet, and a long, mostly hairless tail.
Conversely, “possums” (without the “o”) are found in Australia, New Guinea, and surrounding islands. Australian possums, like the brushtail possum, have denser, fluffier fur and bushy tails. While both are marsupials, they belong to different families.