Although many people believe they are a threat and are afraid every time they see one of these animals, opossums are harmless creatures and are very helpful, so having them in your yard or garden is an advantage.
Also called “zorros” in Yucatan (due to their cleverness of feigning death when they sense danger), these little animals have lived under a stigma that makes them victims of attacks, which often end in death. For this reason, awareness about their care and protection has recently begun to be raised.
So much so that some Yucatecan families have adopted them as pets, such as María Ofelia Pérez, whose life changed with Maximiliano, to the point of becoming the most beloved opossum in Mérida.
For a long time, it was believed that these small marsupials were a pest and represented a danger. It’s no lie, but on the contrary, they are usually very shy animals and prefer to avoid contact with humans.
Among the main benefits of having an opossum visit your home is that they are excellent for pest control, plus they do the job for free, eliminating cockroaches, scorpions, spiders, and even small snakes.
There is a popular saying, used by Yucatecan grandmothers, that goes, “If there’s an opossum on the roof, you won’t see a snake nearby.”
Tlacuaches, as they are known in other parts of Mexico, are excellent natural recyclers. By feeding on food scraps and dead animals, they prevent unpleasant odors and sources of infection.
One of the biggest myths surrounding these little animals is that they are believed to transmit rabies. On the contrary, their low body temperature makes it very difficult for them to carry this virus.
Another deeply held belief among Yucatecans is that they are giant rats. However, they are not rodents, but marsupials, like kangaroos, so there is no risk of them building a nest and they rarely bite. The first thing you should do if you discover a visit from an opossum is not to be afraid.
It is also important to note that they are only looking for food, so you should not attack or scare them away; after eating, they will leave on their own. If you have babies, it’s best not to approach them, and if they are injured or in danger, it’s best to call a local association specializing in wildlife rescue.
TYT Newsroom
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