Grayish mouse opossum
A species of Grayish mouse opossum Scientific name : Tlacuatzin canescens Genus : Grayish mouse opossum
Grayish mouse opossum, A species of Grayish mouse opossum
Scientific name: Tlacuatzin canescens
Genus: Grayish mouse opossum
Content
Description General Info
Description
The grayish mouse opossum is an unusually small opossum, measuring 20 to 35 cm (7.9 to 13.8 in) in total length, including an 11- to 16-cm (4.3- to 6.3-in) tail. Adults weigh from 38 to 60 g (1.3 to 2.1 oz). The body is covered in short, soft fur, with a slightly woolly texture. As the common name suggests, the fur is pale to brownish grey in colour, fading to white or near-white on the under parts and legs. In addition, clearly visible rings of black hair occur around the eyes, and, on females, patches of orange fur in the groin region, sometimes extending to the thighs and up the midline almost to the throat. The whiskers are relatively short, and the ears are rounded, hairless, and dark in colour. The tail is long and prehensile, and hairless for almost all of its length, apart from the base. Females have nine teats, but, unlike many other marsupials, do not have a pouch.
General Info
Lifespan
2-3 years
Diet
Grayish mouse opossum predominantly feeds on invertebrates, particularly insects and spiders. It also complements its diet with fruits and seeds, displaying a preference towards figs and Cecropia fruit.
Appearance
Grayish mouse opossum is a smaller shrew-like mammal boasting a slender body, complimented by a long, pointed snout. Covered in a dusky, grizzled fur, it boasts a distinctly grayer back contrasting with the paler underparts. Its tail, nearly as long as its body, is thinly furred and bicolored. Marked sexual dimorphism is absent in this species, leaving males and females alike in their subdued, earth-toned pelage.
Behavior
Grayish mouse opossum is a primarily solitary, nocturnal species, known for its expert climbing proficiency. Engaging in arboreal foraging at night, grayish mouse opossum feeds predominantly on insects and fruits. This species is a skilled nest builder, using local vegetation to house its offspring. Interestingly, grayish mouse opossum has a unique scent-marking behavior, utilizing anal glands to establish territory boundaries.
Population
Stable
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Mammals Order
Opossums Family
Opossums Genus
Grayish mouse opossum Species
Grayish mouse opossum