Living with Wildlife - December 2020

Reports of baby opossum sightings and concerns whether they are fit to survive on their own are frequent at the Mission Viejo Animal Services Center (MVAS). Generally the size of an opossum will tell you if it can be survive without intervention. If the opossum is approximately 8 inches in length from the base of the tail to the tip of the nose or weighs at least 7.25 ounces, it can be left alone. Baby opossums are carried in their mothers pouch for approximately three months, then will be carried by their mother for about 2 months before they start to fend for themselves. If an opossum appears sick or injured, call us at 949-470 3045, and we will have it evaluated and rehabilitated.

Opossums serve such an important role to the ecology. They are part of the world’s clean-up crew. They keep neighborhoods free of unwanted bugs and will clear up edible trash. Opossums are not aggressive and avoid interactions with humans or pets. If they are threatened, they will open their mouth to show their teeth and even when threatened, opossum bites are rare. (Attached is an image of an orphaned opossum we sent for rehab and release.) For more information on opossums and their role in the ecosystem, visit our website at cmvas.org.