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Wild Mammal Care of Alabama 205.871.7803 updated their cover photo.

Opossums may look ‘scary’ when trying to protect themselves, but actually they are one of the most benign wild mammals that live among us while providing a litany of benefits. Contrary to what most believe, opossums are actually clean and docile marsupials and are non-zoonotic meaning they can’t transmit diseases to humans.  Their core body temperature is so much lower than most mammals that it's nearly impossible for them to contract and transmit diseases like parvo, distemper and rabies.  Opossums are opportunistic and will not stay in one place for long unless a constant ‘free buffet’ of easy food is provided. This is why we recommend feeding pets indoors or at least removing any uneaten food before dark.  Also, keeping your garbage secured will help keep all animals from disrupting your property.  Don’t forget that the Virginia opossum provides an invaluable service. While most of us sleep the night away peacefully, North America’s only marsupial is cleaning up the streets of things we’d rather not see when we awake. 

So if you’re still not sure about the opossum.......Do a little educational digging and it won’t take long before you say out loud, “ Wow, I had no idea!”