MANAUS, BRAZIL - A woolly opossum (Caluromys lanatus), a rarely documented species with nocturnal and solitary habits, was rescued injured by the Amazonas Environmental Protection Institute (Ipaam) on Wednesday (March 18), within the grounds of a municipal agency in the south-central zone of Manaus.

The rescue took place after the animal was spotted with mobility issues near one of the agency’s facilities. The operation was carried out by the institute’s wildlife division, which is responsible for the management and rescue of wild animals in the state.

Biologist Gilson Tavernard said the presence of the animal in an urban area may be linked to the reduction of its natural habitat. He also stressed the importance of public participation in reporting and assisting in wildlife rescue efforts.

The woolly opossum has predominantly nocturnal and arboreal habits, meaning it lives in trees, which makes sightings rare, especially in urban areas. Discreet and agile, it remains in the treetops and ventures out at night to feed on fruits, nectar, and small invertebrates.

Amazon Agency