What to Feed Baby Possums: A Comprehensive Guide
Finding a baby possum in need can be alarming, but knowing how to care for it properly is crucial for its survival. Feeding a baby possum requires careful attention to detail, as improper nutrition can lead to serious health problems. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of what to feed orphaned or injured baby possums, focusing on mimicking their natural diet as closely as possible. It is crucial to remember that you should never attempt to raise a baby possum yourself without contacting a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. They possess the expertise and resources to ensure the possum receives proper care and a chance at successful release back into the wild.
What do baby possums eat in the wild?
Baby possums, like their mothers, primarily consume a diet of insects, fruits, and nectar. Their mother's milk is also a vital source of nutrition in their early development stages. This diet provides them with the necessary proteins, fats, and sugars for growth and development. As they grow older, they transition to a more varied diet, gradually consuming larger insects and more fruits. Understanding this natural diet helps inform what you should offer a possum in a rescue situation.
What should you NOT feed a baby possum?
This is perhaps the most important section. Many well-intentioned people make mistakes that can be fatal to a baby possum. Absolutely do not feed a baby possum:
- Cow's milk or other mammalian milk: This is harmful and can lead to digestive issues. Possums are marsupials and their digestive systems are not equipped to handle cow's milk.
- Dog or cat food: These are inappropriate for possums and lack the necessary nutrients for their development.
- Bread, pastries, or other human foods: These lack nutritional value and can upset their delicate digestive system.
- Raw meat: This presents a high risk of bacterial infections.
What can you feed a baby possum (only under the guidance of a wildlife rehabilitator)?
If, despite your best efforts, you are caring for a baby possum before connecting with a wildlife rehabilitator (and this should only be for a very short period until professional help arrives), you might be given very specific instructions. These instructions will likely involve a specialized formula designed for marsupials. This will be a crucial part of their nutritional needs. However, again, this should only be a temporary measure until a licensed rehabilitator takes over.
What if I find a baby possum?
If you encounter a baby possum, your first action should always be to contact your local wildlife rehabilitation center or animal control. They have the expertise and resources to provide the necessary care and ensure the possum's survival. Do not attempt to care for the possum yourself unless you are a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. Even seemingly minor mistakes can have fatal consequences for the young animal.
What are the signs of a healthy baby possum?
A healthy baby possum will be active, alert, and have clean, dry fur. They will readily nurse or accept formula if offered by a qualified rehabilitator. Any signs of lethargy, diarrhea, or dehydration should be immediately reported to your local wildlife rehabilitator.
How can I help possums in my area?
Supporting your local wildlife rehabilitation center is a great way to help. You can also make your yard possum-friendly by providing natural food sources like fruit trees and avoiding the use of harmful pesticides. Leaving a small amount of water out can also be beneficial, especially during hot weather.
Remember, the best way to help a baby possum is to contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator immediately. They are equipped to provide the specialized care needed to ensure the possum’s survival and eventual return to the wild. This guide is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional wildlife rehabilitation advice.
