Caluromys

Caluromys is a small genus of arboreal marsupials in the family Didelphidae, commonly referred to as woolly opossums. The genus contains two living species: Caluromys derbianus, known as Derbian’s woolly opossum, and Caluromys philander, the grey woolly opossum. Both are nocturnal and highly adapted to life in tropical forests of the Americas, with a strong climbing ability and a prehensile tail used to grasp branches.

Physically, Caluromys species have soft, dense fur that gives them a woolly appearance. They are relatively small to medium-sized opossums, with elongated snouts and large eyes that suit their nocturnal foraging habits. Their tails are long and often prehensile, aiding in navigation through the canopy.

Ecology and behavior: They are omnivorous, feeding on a diet that includes fruits, nectar, insects, and small vertebrates. They tend to be solitary, meeting others mainly for mating, and females with young move through the trees as the offspring develop.

Distribution and habitat: Caluromys species inhabit tropical forests from Central America through northern South America, with a preference for humid, structurally complex habitats such as vines, emergent trees, and riverine forests.

Reproduction and life cycle: Like many marsupials, Caluromys give birth to underdeveloped young that continue development after birth in the mother's pouch or attachment to nipples, resulting in small litter sizes.

Conservation: Habitat loss and deforestation threaten populations in many regions, and conservation status varies by species and locale. Protection of forest habitats is important for the genus’s persistence.