Water opossum

The water opossum, also known as the yapok (Chironectes minimus), is considered the most aquatic living marsupial, with webbed hind feet and a waterproof coat adapted for swimming. While a few other marsupials are semi-aquatic, the water opossum is unique among them for its fully aquatic hunting lifestyle.

Yes, both male and female water opossums have pouches, which is unusual among marsupials. The female's pouch closes tightly to keep young dry while swimming, and the male's pouch protects his genitalia during aquatic activity.

Water opossums are found from southern Mexico through Central and South America to northern Argentina, typically inhabiting freshwater streams, rivers, and lakes. They prefer areas with dense vegetation near waterways where they can hunt for aquatic prey like fish, frogs, and crustaceans.

Water opossums are carnivorous, feeding primarily on aquatic animals such as fish, frogs, crustaceans, and aquatic insects. Their diet reflects their semi-aquatic lifestyle, and they use their sensitive front paws to locate prey underwater in murky conditions.