When Animal Control delivered the injured female opossum to the Animal Hospital it was determined that she was carrying six babies in her pouch. This would complicate the treatment process. Mama could not be anesthesized to pin her broken leg without endangering her offspring. The youngsters, each the size of a small mouse, would have to be separated from their mother, kept in an incubator, and hand fed.

Eventually, three of the young opossums survived and mama's leg healed. All were released at Hueco Mountains State Park just east of El Paso.

Warning! If you encounter an injured wild animal, call an experienced person to remove it to the proper facilities for treatment. Due to pain and fright, any wild animal is going to be more prone to fight and bite. If you must handle it, use heavy leather gloves or wrap the animal in a thick blanket for protection. Call the local office of Animal Control, Fish and Wildlife, or a Wildlife Rehabilitation Organization. They can direct you to further assistance.