Hello, I’m a possum. Probably, you don't know it, but I’m not here to cause any trouble. Actually, I’m here to help. Every night, I can eat around 2,000 ticks, along with insects that spread disease.
I also keep snake numbers in check, even the venomous ones. My body is tough enough to survive rattlesnake or coral snake bites, and yes, I even eat venomous snakes like they’re just another meal.
What’s more, my blood carries something special. Scientists have used it to develop treatments for snake bites that save lives. Without animals like me, there would be more pests, more snakes, and fewer cures for people.
So if you see me, please don’t hurt me. Let me raise my babies. I’m just out here doing my part to make the world a little safer for everyone.