Species · GBIF taxon 2439873
Linnaeus's Mouse Opossum
Marmosa murinaAlso known as Common Mouse Opossum, Murine Mouse Opossum
Linnaeus's mouse opossums navigate the tropical forest canopy with remarkable agility, using their long, hairless prehensile tails as a fifth limb. These pouchless marsupials are strictly nocturnal, emerging at dusk to hunt insects and forage for ripe fruit under the cover of darkness. Mothers carry their tiny young clinging directly to their teats and fur rather than tucked inside a protective pouch.
NocturnalArborealMarsupial
- diet
- Omnivorous, feeding on insects, spiders, small lizards, fruits, and nectar
- family
- Didelphidae
- threats
- Habitat loss, forest fragmentation, and pesticide use in agricultural areas
- life Span
- 1 to 2 years
LC
May bite defensively if cornered or handled; observe quietly from a distance.
Sharp teeth can deliver a painful bite capable of breaking the skin and transmitting bacteria.
Never attempt to touch or corner wild opossums; keep a respectful distance and use binoculars.- Spotting at night: Use a red-filtered flashlight to locate their bright, reflective eyes in the forest canopy.
- Listen closely: Listen for soft rustling in low branches or vines where they forage for insects.