How Baby Opossums Found Comfort After Losing Their Mom
Opossums are some of the most misunderstood animals in the United States, yet they play a vital role in maintaining healthy ecosystems. Native to South America, with over 100 different species, opossums might not always look cuddly, but their importance cannot be ignored.
Unfortunately, opossums often face a tough life, with an average lifespan of just one to two years. Many of these gentle creatures are hit by cars, leaving them vulnerable and alone. This was exactly what happened when the Newhouse Wildlife Rescue found a litter of baby opossums next to their fatally injured mother earlier this year.
A Tragic Discovery

The rescue team came across the heartbreaking scene of a mother opossum who had been hit by a car. Her babies, too young to survive on their own, were still clinging to her. The team wrote on social media, “It has only been two days since we found them on the side of the road. They were still clinging to their deceased mother.”
Despite the sadness of the situation, the team acted quickly to separate the babies from their mother. They found that the little opossums were healthy enough to be cared for and gave them a chance to survive.
Finding Comfort in a Plushy Mom

To comfort the baby opossums, the Newhouse Wildlife Rescue team placed them in an incubator and created a special feeding plan. They also gave the babies a plushy toy that resembled their mom. The toy became their source of comfort, helping them simulate the bond they would have had with their real mother.
The team shared updates, noting how the babies loved snuggling into the plushy mom and climbing onto its back, just like they would with their real mother. “These baby opossums love being able to simulate what they would have been doing with their mother if they weren’t orphans,” the team shared.
A Happy Ending

With the dedicated care of the rescue team, the baby opossums grew strong and healthy over time. Once they were ready, they were released back into the wild to live their lives. “I bet mom would be so happy to know her babies are safe and being taken care of,” the team wrote.


Fascinating Facts About Opossums
Opossums are unique creatures that deserve our respect. Here are some interesting facts about them:
- They are marsupials, related to kangaroos and koalas, and their babies stay in their pouches for up to three months.
- Opossums have 50 teeth—more than any other North American land mammal.
- They are immune to snake venom and help control pests like ticks and garden insects.
- Opossums are clean animals that groom themselves regularly, much like cats.
- They have clawless thumbs on their hind feet, giving them excellent climbing and grasping abilities.
Despite their importance, opossums are often mistaken for large rats. But these “Nature’s Little Sanitation Engineers” play a crucial role in cleaning up carcasses and reducing the spread of diseases.
How You Can Help
Every year, countless opossums lose their lives due to car accidents. The Opossum Society of the United States recommends driving slower at night and staying alert to avoid hitting wildlife. Small actions like these can save lives and protect these valuable members of our ecosystem.
Final Thoughts
The story of the baby opossums rescued by Newhouse Wildlife Rescue reminds us of the power of kindness and compassion. Even the smallest creatures deserve love and care. Consider taking steps to protect wildlife in your area, and let’s work together to ensure a brighter future for these incredible animals.