Around what age are young opossums independent?

• A. 2 months
• B. 12-13 weeks
• C. 4-5 months
• D. 6-7 weeks

Answer: (B)

Independence for young opossums comes around three months of age. They are born very underdeveloped and spend a substantial period finishing their growth after birth. The tiny newborn climbs to the mother’s pouch and stays there for about two months to complete development. After leaving the pouch, they continue to rely on the mother for a while, riding on her back and nursing until they can forage and survive on their own. By roughly 12 to 13 weeks, most joeys can feed themselves, navigate their environment, and handle basic survival needs without direct maternal care. That makes 12–13 weeks the best fit for when they’re independent.