Dwindling time
It’s past the Autumnal Equinox and baby season is finally over. There are still 10 opossums in my care, 3 of which are going to educational placements. Of the remaining ones, 3 will be overwintered, and 4 will be released this week.
Of the 10 or so release sites I regularly use, I saved 3 for late season babies, so I know I won’t be overloading the environment.
When seeking new sites, I carefully scope them out, first using satellite map views, then driving around the area. Releases always happen next to a stream, creek or river so they have a safe route to travel even if they come upon a road; if they follow the stream banks they will stay safe. A year round source of water and food is non-negotiable, so even when people have generously offered their property as a site, having seen opossums visiting regularly, I have to decline if there isn’t a reliable water source (bird baths don’t count, even if local pass-throughs use it).
Opossums also like to use running water as a latrine (another reason to be careful in any fresh water!) to hide their scent, and are decent swimmers. Frogs, clams, crayfish, and all the other creatures that seek fresh water are delicious food for our omnivorous friends. I’ll be sure to post release photos next week!
