Injured & Orphaned Opossum
Please note: Tenafly Nature Center is not licensed to accept injured or orphaned wildlife.
An animal’s best chance for survival is in the care of its own mother.
If you must handle a wild animal, always wear protective gloves and place a towel or cloth over it to reduce stress. Use extreme caution, as wild animals may carry diseases or become defensive when frightened. Keep yourself, children, and pets at a safe distance, and contact your local animal control agency immediately if you suspect illness or injury.
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Opossums are North America’s only marsupial, meaning females carry and nurse their young in a pouch.
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Baby opossums stay with their mother until they are about 6–8 inches long. If you find a smaller opossum alone, it may be orphaned, but the mother could still be nearby.
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If you find a small, uninjured baby opossum, place it in a shallow box close to where it was found and observe from a distance. The mother may return once the area is quiet. Remember, opossums are nocturnal and usually move about at night.
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If the mother does not return, or if you are certain she has died, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator for help.
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Signs of injury include shivering, bleeding, vomiting, weakness, emaciation, or being struck by a vehicle or attacked by a pet.
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If you accidentally hit a mother opossum, there may be live babies in her pouch. Because removing babies can be difficult and risky, it is best not to attempt it yourself unless specifically instructed by a licensed rehabilitator.
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If you can do so safely, use a shovel to gently place the mother’s body into a box for transport to a wildlife rehabilitator, where trained professionals can check for surviving young.
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Be aware that it is illegal to collect roadkill without a permit. Only move the animal if you are certain there are babies that need help, and take it directly to a licensed rehabilitator.
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Opossums are omnivores and opportunistic feeders—they will eat almost anything, including garbage. Occasionally, they may become trapped inside trash cans.
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If you find an opossum in your garbage can, gently tip the can over using a broom or long object, then move away and allow it to leave without interference.
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If the animal does not leave after some time, it may be dehydrated or exhausted. In that case, contact a wildlife rehabilitator for advice or safe removal.
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To prevent future encounters, always secure garbage lids tightly and avoid leaving food waste outdoors.
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If a wildlife rehabilitator advises you to bring in an opossum or any other wild animal, follow these steps carefully:
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Prepare a secure container: Line it with a clean, soft towel or cloth.
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Protect yourself: Wear gloves, gently cover the animal with another towel, and place it into the container. Even if it appears calm, it may scratch or bite when frightened. Wash your hands and arms thoroughly afterward.
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Keep the animal calm and warm: Cover the box to keep it dark and quiet. Keep pets and children away.
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Do not feed or give water. Feeding can cause serious harm or even death if done incorrectly.
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Record the exact location where the animal was found. This is critical information for its eventual release.
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Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator right away. Do not attempt to care for the animal yourself, it is illegal to keep injured or orphaned wildlife without the proper permits and training.
The advice provided on this page is intended for general guidance and should be used at your own discretion. Wildlife laws and regulations may vary by county. Always verify local rules and consult a licensed wildlife rehabilitator before taking action.
Last Resort Wildlife Refuge
973-506-4353
West Milford
Wildlife Freedom Inc.
973-839-4597
Wanaque
Complete list of Wildlife Rehabilitators