Crosswinds Marsh: A to Z

(Opossum)

The Opossum, scientifically known as Didelphis virginiana, is a marsupial native to North and South America. These nocturnal creatures are known for their distinctive prehensile tails, hairless ears, and unique defense mechanism of playing dead when threatened. Opossums are highly adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and urban areas, where they scavenge for food opportunistically. They are omnivorous, feeding on a diverse diet of insects, fruits, small mammals, carrion, and even garbage, making them valuable scavengers that help maintain ecosystem cleanliness.

Female opossums give birth to tiny, underdeveloped young, which then climb into their mother's pouch to continue their development. The pouch acts as a protective environment for the young, where they nurse and grow for several weeks until they are sufficiently developed to venture out on their own. Opossums have a relatively short lifespan in the wild, typically living only around two to four years due to predation, disease, and other environmental factors. However, their ability to reproduce rapidly and adapt to various habitats ensures their continued presence and ecological importance across their range.

The Cache: This cache is one of twenty-six that were placed for the 2024 Naturefest. The series focuses on the flora, fauna, creatures, and insects that can be found in Croswinds Marsh. This cache is a small lock and lock style container hidden along the Woodpecker Loop trail

It has been placed with the permission of Wayne County Parks. A permit has been submitted and is on file at the park office.

Crosswinds Marsh Rules
No fires
No bikes / ATVs / personal watercraft
No swimming or ice fishing
Dogs must be leashed
No alcohol or illegal substances
No camping
Fishing in designated areas only
Collecting of plants & animals prohibited
Park only at N 42° 05.744' W 83° 26.552'
All Geocachers must follow the above rules.
Crosswinds Marsh is open from DAWN to DUSK. Admission is FREE.

The Crosswinds Cache Crew pledge to develop and maintain quality and interesting geocaches in the Marsh consistent with Geocaching and Wayne County Parks rules and permit process.