Very good dinner guests.

People often show their true selves in how they treat animals!

He was cold, weak, and barely hanging on. But even in his fragile state, he showed the gentle nature that makes these creatures so special.
Many people think opossums are [me.an] or [dan.ger.ous], but the truth is the complete opposite.

They’re calm, peaceful, and surprisingly sweet. Wildlife rehabbers often say they’re some of the easiest wild animals to handle because they rarely bite or scratch.
Let’s help [clear] up the myths and show some love for these [mi.sund.erst.ood] little survivors.

Here are a few amazing things you might not know about opossums:
They’re not [ag.gre.ssi.ve]. Even when [th.re.ate.ned], they don’t fight back. They “pl.ay de.ad” instead, hoping [da.ng.er] [pa.ss.es].
They almost never [ca.rry ra.bi.es]. Their body temperature is too low for the [v.ir.us] to survive.

They eat thousands of ticks every week. That’s right—one opossum can [el.im.in.ate] up to 4,000 ticks in seven days. They help protect us from Lyme [di.se.ase] just by being themselves.
They don’t [de.str.oy] property. If one wanders into your garage or yard, just give it an exit and remove food—it’ll leave quietly.
They’ve been around for over 70 million years. True survivors from prehistoric times.

They clean up [ro.adk.i.ll] and waste. Nature’s own cleanup crew.
They’re the only native marsupials in North America. A little touch of the outback right here at home.
They protect gardens. They’ll eat slugs and beetles but leave your flowers and veggies untouched.

They’re immune to snake venom. Scientists are studying their [bl.o.od] to develop new antivenoms for humans.
They’re smart. Studies show they can outthink many domestic animals when it comes to finding and remembering food.

So next time you see one wandering quietly at night, remember opossums aren’t [pe.sts]. They’re protectors. They’re survivors.
Let’s spread the truth and give these gentle creatures the respect they deserve. 💚

H/t: Becky Zielinski