How difficult is it to keep Short-tailed Opossum?

Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.

What is the lifespan of Short-tailed Opossum?

The average lifespan of Short-tailed Opossum is 4-6 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.

How large does Short-tailed Opossum get?

Short-tailed Opossum typically reaches 12-18cm (25cm with tail) / 60-150g as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.

What should I feed Short-tailed Opossum?

Short-tailed Opossum feeds on: Insects (mealworms, crickets), fruits, specialized food. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.

What is the typical price for Short-tailed Opossum?

The price of Short-tailed Opossum varies significantly depending on variety, age, sex, and the individual animal's condition. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Short-tailed Opossum

Intermediate

Monodelphis domestica

Small marsupial from South America. Solitary and omnivorous, eating insects and fruits. Curious and tames well with handling.

Difficulty

Intermediate

Temperature

18〜26℃

Lifespan

4-6 years

Size

12-18cm (25cm with tail) / 60-150g

Humidity

40〜60%

Diet

Insects (mealworms, crickets), fruits, specialized food

About

The gray short-tailed opossum (Monodelphis domestica) is a small marsupial native to the tropical forests and savannas of Brazil, Paraguay, and Bolivia. Unlike most marsupials, short-tailed opossums lack a pouch; the highly altricial young cling directly to the mother's abdominal fur and mammary glands. They are nocturnal omnivores, feeding on insects, fruit, and small invertebrates in the wild. They are skilled climbers, using their semi-prehensile tail for support. In captivity, they should be housed individually as they are territorial. A vertically oriented cage with climbing branches, hammocks, and a nest box is essential. Diet should mirror their natural intake: live insects (mealworms, crickets), fruit, and limited protein sources. Common health concerns include obesity, nutritional deficiencies, and fractures.

Lifespan of the Short-tailed Opossum

The Short-tailed Opossum lives 4-6 years.

Captive lifespan is 4–6 years.

Size of the Short-tailed Opossum

The Short-tailed Opossum grows to 12-18cm (25cm with tail) / 60-150g.

Adults measure 12–18 cm in body length with a short, partially prehensile tail, and weigh 60–150 g.

Temperature & humidity for the Short-tailed Opossum

Optimal temperature is 24–28 °C.

Basic Info

Origin

Brazil, Paraguay, and Bolivia

Lifespan

4-6 years

References & Sources

Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team

The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.

Primary sources

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Monodelphis domestica (Wagner, 1842)

Authority databases: GBIF

Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.

Regulations & Conservation Status

Not CITES-listedIUCN LC · Least Concern

Sources: Monodelphis domestica IUCN LC (not CITES-listed)

Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.