How you can help over 30 opossums survive the harsh winter season

As temperatures continue to drop, staff at the Procyon Wildlife Centre in Beeton are growing concerned about the safety of the opossums in their care.

The centre is currently home to 35 Virginia opossums, including babies and mothers, after taking in several of these mammals throughout the year.

“Opossums are often misunderstood, but these unique mammals play an important role in our ecosystem”, the centre shared on their website.

While the wooden nest boxes in their enclosures offer some protection, people at the sanctuary fear that they may not be enough to shield the animals from extreme cold.

Opossums sanctioned at the Procyon Wildlife Centre in Beeton Ont., on Nov., 5, 2024. (Procyon Wildlife)

To address this situation, Procyon Wildlife is asking the community to donate insulated coolers, which can be repurposed into warm and secure nest boxes.

These coolers provide better insulation and ensure the opossums remain safe throughout the winter months.

“Possum, raccoons and skunks do not hibernate and will look for a place to warm up. Please let them warm if they are near your house. If we help them through the winter they will thank us by eating our ticks and other annoying bugs and critters,” shared one individual with Procyon Wildlife in a social media post.

Insulated coolers transformed into a warm nest box for opossums at the Procyon Wildife Centre. (Courtesy: Debra Spilar)

If you have an insulated cooler you no longer need, donations can be dropped off at the shed near the bottom of Procyon Wildlife’s driveway. Alternatively, you can contact the centre at 905-729-0033 for more details.

This gesture can make a significant difference in protecting these unique creatures during the cold months ahead.