A mother opossum and her two babies were rescued after becoming trapped inside a pipe in Asunción’s Mburukujá neighbourhood, near the Paraguayan-Japanese Centre. The operation was carried out by the Municipality of Asunción, with assistance from volunteer firefighters, following concerns raised by local residents. The three animals were subsequently released into a safer natural habitat.
A rescue operation in Mburukujá
The animals were discovered inside a drainage pipe connected to an inspection chamber at a commercial establishment. Residents contacted municipal authorities after noticing their situation, particularly concerned about the risk posed by recent rainfall. The Municipality’s Zoonosis Department coordinated the rescue with volunteer firefighters from the Second Company of Trinidad. The operation required specialised equipment to open a welded metal grate and safely remove the trapped animals without injuring them.
Juan Cabral, head of the municipal Zoonosis Department, explained that the firefighters’ assistance was essential to completing the rescue safely. Following the operation, the mother opossum and her two babies were transported to the Northern Waterfront (Costanera Norte). The animals released near Banco San Miguel, an area considered more suitable for their survival and development.
Why opossums are important to Paraguay’s ecosystem
Known locally as mykurẽ, opossums are marsupials commonly found in Paraguay. Although these animals are not generally considered endangered, they frequently face threats caused by fear and misconceptions about their behaviour. According to Cabral, some people mistakenly regard opossums as dangerous or harmful and may kill them out of fear.
However, these animals play an important ecological role by feeding on insects and other small creatures. Their diet contributes to the natural control of certain animal populations, helping maintain ecological balance in urban and natural environments. Cabral emphasised that opossums generally avoid confrontation and are unlikely to attack unless they feel threatened. They typically seek dark, sheltered spaces where they can rest and protect themselves.
What to do when encountering an opossum
Municipal authorities recommend avoiding any attempt to attack, capture or handle an opossum when encountering one in an urban area. Instead, residents should contact the appropriate municipal department so trained personnel can assess the situation and intervene when necessary. Cabral also explains that Asunción’s Northern Waterfront and Parque Guasu are among the locations used to release rescued opossums.
The Municipality of Asunción highlighs the importance of protecting urban wildlife and encouraging peaceful coexistence between residents and native species. The rescue also serves as a reminder that understanding the behaviour and ecological importance of animals such as the mykurẽ can help reduce unnecessary harm to Paraguay’s wildlife.
