Species · GBIF taxon 5219950
Gray Four-eyed Opossum
Philander opossumAlso known as Four-eyed Opossum, Guianan Four-eyed Opossum
Gray four-eyed opossums are agile, nocturnal marsupials named for the distinctive pale spots above each eye that mimic an extra pair of eyes. They are highly active climbers and adept swimmers, frequently foraging near streams and swampy areas. Females rear their young in a well-developed pouch, eventually carrying older offspring on their backs through the forest canopy.
NocturnalMarsupialSolitary
- diet
- Omnivorous, feeding on insects, small vertebrates, fruit, and nectar
- family
- Didelphidae
- threats
- Deforestation, habitat fragmentation, and vehicle collisions
- life Span
- 1 to 2 years
LC
Capable of a sharp defensive bite if cornered; observe from a safe distance.
Possesses sharp teeth and strong jaws capable of delivering a painful defensive bite if handled or cornered.
Never attempt to touch or trap; back away slowly if one displays its teeth or hisses.- Night Spotting: Use a red-filtered flashlight to spot their highly reflective eyes without causing distress.
- Keep Distance: Avoid cornering them on the ground, as they can become highly defensive and hiss loudly.
- Look Near Water: Focus search efforts along stream banks and swampy forest edges where they actively forage.