Source: Wikimedia Commons
Short-tailed Opossum
IntermediateMonodelphis
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. Adults measure 12–18 cm in body length with a short, partially prehensile tail, and weigh 60–150 g. 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. Optimal temperature is 24–28 °C. Common health concerns include obesity, nutritional deficiencies, and fractures. Captive lifespan is 4–8 years.
Basic Info
Origin
Brazil, Paraguay, and Bolivia
Lifespan
4-6 years
Size
12-18cm (25cm with tail) / 60-150g
Temperature
18〜26℃
Humidity
40〜60%
Diet
Insects (mealworms, crickets), fruits, specialized food
Care Guide
Environment
Must be housed alone. Add climbing branches and hammocks to cage
Diet
Omnivore favoring insects. Ferret food can substitute if no specialized food
Temperament
Curious and active. Daily handling builds a tame bond
Notes
Nocturnal. Cold-sensitive — maintain room temp around 25°C
IntermediateMarsupialSolitaryInsectivore
Short-tailed Opossum FAQ
QHow difficult is it to keep Short-tailed Opossum?
A
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Short-tailed Opossum?
A
The ideal temperature for Short-tailed Opossum is 18〜26℃. Recommended humidity is 40〜60%. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Short-tailed Opossum?
A
The average lifespan of Short-tailed Opossum is 4-6 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
QHow large does Short-tailed Opossum get?
A
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.
QWhat should I feed Short-tailed Opossum?
A
Short-tailed Opossum feeds on: Insects (mealworms, crickets), fruits, specialized food. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
QWhat is the typical price for Short-tailed Opossum?
A
The price of Short-tailed Opossum varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
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