On May 1, 2010 a juvenile male Virginia Opossum was admitted to the wildlife hospital after being attacked by a dog, unfortunately a common injury to Long Island's native wildlife. Many of our family pets find, chase, or even hunt wildlife in our own backyards. One way to deter this from happening is to monitor your pet while it is in your yard. Additionally, walking your dog on a lead instead of allowing them free access to your backyard habitat can prevent wildlife injury.
This young male Opossum was successfully rehabilitated and released back to the wild.
Opossums are North America's only marsupials. Although opossums may look frightening, they are more afraid of people; their main defense is to "play possum" or play dead to trick their predators into thinking they are not alive. Seldom will an opossum bite as a means of defense.
If you find an injured or orphaned opossum, call our hotline (631)423-0982, or email our wildlife advisory for help.
This young male Opossum was successfully rehabilitated and released back to the wild.
Opossums are North America's only marsupials. Although opossums may look frightening, they are more afraid of people; their main defense is to "play possum" or play dead to trick their predators into thinking they are not alive. Seldom will an opossum bite as a means of defense.
My family added a bell to our dog's collar when she's outside. Helps warn the birds and small mammals in our backyard of her presence.
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