Finding a baby possum can be alarming, but knowing how to care for it is crucial. Feeding a baby possum requires careful attention to detail, as improper nutrition can lead to serious health issues. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of what to feed baby possums, addressing common questions and concerns. Remember, handling wildlife should be done with caution and ideally with the assistance of wildlife rehabilitation experts. This information is for educational purposes only and shouldn't replace professional advice.
What Do Baby Possums Eat in the Wild?
Before delving into what you can feed a foundling, let's understand their natural diet. Mother possums nurse their young for several months, supplementing their diet with soft, easily digestible insects and other invertebrates as they grow. As they mature, their diet expands to include fruits, berries, and nectar.
What Should You Feed a Baby Possum?
Feeding a baby possum is a delicate process. The best approach is to contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator immediately. They have the expertise and resources to provide the proper care and diet. However, if immediate access to a rehabilitator isn't possible, the following guidelines offer temporary assistance:
Important Note: Milk replacer designed specifically for orphaned marsupials is crucial. Cow's milk and other types of milk are extremely harmful and can be fatal to possums.
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Specifically formulated marsupial milk replacer: This is the only suitable substitute for a mother's milk. You can often find these products at pet stores specializing in exotic animals or through wildlife rehabilitation organizations. Follow the instructions on the packaging meticulously.
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Transitional Foods: As the possum grows, and with a wildlife rehabilitator's guidance, you can gradually introduce soft, high-protein foods like:
- Insects (finely crushed): Mealworms are a good option. Ensure they are prepared safely and hygienically.
- Well-cooked, finely chopped meat: Small amounts of chicken or lean ground beef can be provided as the possum matures.
How Often Should You Feed a Baby Possum?
The frequency of feeding depends on the possum's age and size. A very young possum may need to be fed every few hours, while older joeys can be fed less frequently. A wildlife rehabilitator will provide a precise feeding schedule tailored to the possum's individual needs.
What Should You NOT Feed a Baby Possum?
Several foods are toxic or unsuitable for baby possums. Never give them:
- Cow's milk or other mammalian milk: This can cause severe digestive upset and even death.
- Dog or cat food: These are not nutritionally balanced for possums.
- Raw meat: This carries a high risk of bacterial contamination.
- Chocolate, caffeine, or alcohol: These substances are toxic to possums.
- Fruits and vegetables (except as directed by a rehabilitator): While these are part of the adult possum diet, they are not appropriate for very young joeys.
What if I Don't Have Access to Marsupial Milk Replacer?
If you absolutely cannot access specialized milk replacer, contact a wildlife rehabilitator immediately. This is a critical situation, and improper nutrition can quickly lead to illness or death. They will guide you on the best course of action.
How Can I Tell if the Baby Possum is Healthy?
A healthy possum will be alert, active, and have moist, clean eyes and fur. Signs of illness include lethargy, diarrhea, dehydration, and difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek professional veterinary care for wildlife immediately.
Where Can I Find a Wildlife Rehabilitator?
Your local animal control or humane society should be able to provide a list of licensed wildlife rehabilitators in your area. They are the best resource for ensuring the baby possum receives proper care and eventually returns to the wild.
Remember, while providing temporary care is admirable, the best outcome for a baby possum is to get it to a professional rehabilitator as quickly as possible. Their expertise ensures the possum has the best chance of survival and eventual release back into its natural habitat.
