Open AccessNatural History and Rehabilitation of the Virginia Opossum (Didelphis virginiana)
Author(s) -
Rose Augustine
Publication year - 2010
Publication title -
wildlife rehabilitation bulletin
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 2769-6960
pISSN - 1535-2242
DOI - 10.53607/wrb.v28.102
Subject(s) - opossum , didelphis , rehabilitation , natural history , mammal , geography , ecology , biology , medicine , physical therapy
As the only pouched mammal in the United States, the Virginia opossum is a unique animal for rehabilitators. This paper focuses on the natural history and rehabilitation of orphan opossums, and addresses the common challenges faced in a captive rehabilitation setting. Some of the ideas discussed include feeding, indoor and outdoor housing, enrichment, and release considerations.