Species · GBIF taxon 2439930
White-eared Opossum
Didelphis albiventrisAlso known as Saruê, Comadreja Overa, Timbu, Cassaco
White-eared opossums are highly adaptable marsupials easily recognized by their stark white ears, dark facial mask, and coarse, grizzled grey fur. They navigate both forest canopies and suburban backyards with ease, using their prehensile tails as a fifth limb for climbing. Females carry their developing young in a well-developed pouch, eventually transitioning them to ride on their backs as they forage under the cover of night.
NocturnalMarsupialAdaptable
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Insects
- Small Rodents
- Fallen Fruits
Predators
- Crab-eating Fox
- Maned Wolf
- Large Birds of Prey
ThreatsVehicle collisions, domestic dog attacks, and habitat fragmentation
HabitatsForests, savannas, shrublands, agricultural areas, and urban zones
Life span2 to 4 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyDidelphidae
- SpeciesDidelphis albiventris
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- May hiss and bite if cornered; observe from a safe distance and do not corner.
- Why it is dangerous
- Possesses sharp teeth and strong jaws capable of delivering a painful bite if cornered or handled.
- How to recognize a risky encounter
- Look for the distinct white ears, dark eye mask, and a long, scaly prehensile tail.
- What to do
- Never attempt to touch or capture a wild opossum; back away slowly to let it escape.
Responsible observation
- Keep distance: Give them space when encountered at night, as they are non-aggressive but will hiss or play dead if they feel trapped.
- Secure trash: Keep outdoor garbage bins sealed to prevent attracting them to residential properties.
- Drive carefully: Watch the roads during twilight and nighttime hours when they are most active.
Close Relative Cody Pope / CC BY-SA 2.5 · cc-by-sa
Close Relative Rabipelao.jpg: Juan Tello derivative work: WolfmanSF (talk) / CC BY 2.0 · cc-by
Close Relative
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