Orphaned Opossum Is Released Into The Wild And Acts Like A Stubborn Teenager

Sheri Kassalias rescued three baby opossums. Two of them were left motherless after a car accident, and another one was all alone after being attacked by a dog.

She planned to get them healthy and when they were old enough, she’d release them back into the wild where they belong.

She carefully nursed them back to health and finally, after much TLC, the time came for the three to be released.

The first two opossums went happily on their way when released, anxious to get back to their natural habitat.

Then there was one left.

As they took the cage out to release the little guy, he didn’t seem too thrilled…and then he positively refused to go!

But Sheri loved this tiny creature as much as he loved her, and she couldn’t force him to go if he didn’t want to.

She said, “he climbed up my sleeve.” That’s when she knew he wasn’t going to leave at all and she just accepted it.

Opie, as he’s come to be called, has lived with Sheri and her family, including three dogs, for two years.

He goes everywhere with Sheri, and they even started a program where they go to elementary schools to educate kids about marsupials.

Sheri is very attached to Opie, and worries about the time they have together.

You see, the average lifespan of a opossum is a mere two years, and they just celebrated Opie’s second birthday…

But she is determined to cherish the time they have left together.

“Regardless of how much time I have left with him,” Sheri said, “I know I have done absolutely everything in my power.

If his longevity was based on love, he would live to be 100.”

That’s one of the sweetest things we’ve ever heard anyone say about an animal. 😀

Source: Shareably