Opossum (Didelphis marsupialis) Formerly known as Virginia Opossum (Didelphis virginiana), now it's considered the same species as the one in Mexico. Color varies from lt.gray to almost black. Its nocturnal, and lives in open woods, along streams or on farmlands and finds shelter in hollow trees, in culverts, under brush-piles or under buildings. Its the only marsupial in North America. Picture taken 5/6/01.
	Opossums are born premature (very tiny) and live in the fur-lined pouch (marsupium) on the mother's belly. As they mature and no longer have room in the marsupium, they climb out onto her back and cling to the mother's fur as she wanders around in search of food. It may not be the mother's fur, but this opossum has a tight grip on the cage door.
	Photo taken 5/27/01 to show growth progress. The opossum learned to forage for his own food and was released.