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Baby possums ride on their mother’s back after leaving the pouch, clinging to her fur with their claws and teeth. Virginia opossums (Didelphis virginiana) are North America’s only marsupials. After 60-70 days in the pouch, the babies (called joeys or kits) are large enough to climb onto their mother’s back for piggyback rides. This is a crucial stage in their development as they learn to navigate their environment.
Key Takeaways
- Baby possums stay in the pouch for 60-70 days before riding on their mother’s back.
- They cling to the mother’s fur using their claws and teeth, often holding onto her tail for balance.
- Mother possums carry up to 8-10 babies on their back at once. The babies appear as a furry mass.
- Piggyback riding lasts 2-3 months until the babies are large enough to walk on their own.
Life in the Pouch
After a gestation period of only 12-14 days, possum babies are born blind, hairless, and the size of a honeybee. They must crawl from the birth canal to the mother’s pouch, where they latch onto one of her 13 nipples. The babies stay in the pouch for 60-70 days, growing and developing.
- At birth: Babies are 0.5 inches long, smaller than a dime.
- At 30 days: Fur begins to grow, eyes are still closed.
- At 60 days: Eyes open, babies are the size of a mouse.
- At 70 days: Babies are too large for the pouch and begin riding on the mother’s back.
The Piggyback Stage
Once the babies outgrow the pouch, they climb onto the mother’s back and hold on with their claws and teeth. The mother’s fur provides a secure grip. The babies may also wrap their tails around the mother’s tail for added stability. A mother possum with a full litter looks like she is carrying a furry saddle.
During this stage, the babies learn essential survival skills:
- Foraging: They watch the mother find food and begin eating solid food alongside her.
- Climbing: They practice climbing on and off the mother’s back, developing their coordination.
- Social behavior: They interact with siblings, learning grooming and communication.
- Predator avoidance: They learn to freeze, hiss, and play dead from the mother’s example.
Independence
The piggyback stage lasts 2-3 months. As the babies grow larger, they spend more time walking alongside the mother rather than riding. By 4-5 months of age, they are fully independent and leave the mother to establish their own territories.
For more possum facts, read our possum behavior guide and possum backyard guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many babies can a possum carry on her back?
A mother possum can carry up to 8-10 babies on her back at once. The babies cling to her fur, and their combined weight can make the mother appear larger. If you see a possum with a “hump” on her back, she is likely carrying a litter.
How long do baby possums ride on their mother?
Baby possums ride on their mother’s back for 2-3 months after leaving the pouch, starting at around 70 days old. They become fully independent at 4-5 months of age.
Do baby possums ever fall off their mother?
Yes, babies can fall off, especially during climbing or running. The mother will stop and wait for the baby to climb back on. If a baby is lost, she will search for it. If a baby cannot be found, it is unlikely to survive on its own.
What should I do if I find a baby possum alone?
If the baby is smaller than a mouse (less than 7 inches excluding tail), it needs help. Warm it in a box with a towel and contact a wildlife rehabilitator. If the baby is larger than 7 inches, it may be independent. Observe from a distance for a few hours before intervening.
The Bottom Line
Baby possums ride on their mother’s back after leaving the pouch, clinging to her fur with their claws. This piggyback stage lasts 2-3 months and is a critical learning period. If you see a possum carrying babies, leave them alone. The mother is caring for her young, and they will become independent within a few months. If you find a baby alone, contact a wildlife rehabilitator for guidance.
