Maria Enger, Campus Carrier photographer

Something we prize in our society to make us smile or make our wallpaper and fawn over whenever we see it are cute animals. As a kid, I’ve always loved animals no matter their size or looks, so I grew up appreciating all flaws, even the creepy crawlies. One day I thought, “Why do we consider some animal gems to host in our backyard and other pests that need to be shooed away or captured by pest animal control?”

Enter an animal I love but many view as a pest: the opossum. 

Opossums are one of the most loveable animals in my opinion. Their only real threat is a good laugh when they freeze up and play dead rather unconvincingly. While often viewed only as pests that rummage through your trash or dig an unappealing hole in your yard, I argue differently. In my opinion, I think opossums are rather charming, rat-like tails and all.

Many people have the notion that they carry rabies, which gives further cause to avoid them. This isn’t necessarily true, though. Although, like any animal, they can carry dangerous diseases, they likely won’t give you rabies. Many deem foxes and racoons as cuter due to their funny masks and fluffy tails, but they are the real culprits who may give you rabies. Another beloved animal is the armadillo, which are known for their Yoshi-like ability of rolling into a ball when threatened. Unfortunately these adorable little critters are known for carrying lyme disease, and as cute of a photo-op they would make, holding them is not recommended. 

One more critter, who I hold no personal vendetta against, are hedgehogs, which may be surprising because they’re usually a welcome sight in a garden. Wrong. These guys will eat your plants and produce, and if you’re not careful, they will eat any wandering chicks if you raise chickens. Yes, hedgehogs do and will eat meat, not just plants.

So, in conclusion, I say we should be much more kind to critters like opossums. Their tails may not be as fluffy as a skunk or raccoon, but they usually mean no harm, and if approaching you – which is rare because they are incredibly shy – are likely just curious or wanting a snack.