View Full Version : Wanted: Opossum
I'm looking for a single Short-tailed, White-eared or Virginia opossum. Doesn't matter what sex.
Just curious, Cat- what are you going to do with a possum?
At any rate, if I was looking for a possum, I'd contact Sarvey Wild Animal Rescue- we rescued a possum years ago that they took off our hands, and they said if it was too injured to be released after it recovered (hit by a car) they would keep it for educational shows. He said they don't euthanize anything, that they'd had other possums in the past. My husband fished it out of the ditch in front of our house, it was barely alive, one eye was out of the socket. The Sarvey guy said the vet would put the eye back in, sew the eyelid shut for a few weeks, and then it would be OK- their vision is poor anyway. He gave that little creature a shot of something or other and I swear it came back to life. I couldn't believe it, I thought it was dying.
Of course, you know that, like raccoons, you have to have paperwork that states you brought it in from out of state- you aren't by law supposed to keep a native Washington state "Game animal" in captivity. I believe the paperwork can be as simple as someone from another state swearing that they rescued an orphan animal (in their own state) and gave it to you. A vet told me that once when I had a baby raccoon.
staci_baisch
12-08-2006, 00:17
Cecelia, people breed possums for pets. Many years ago at the Captive Breeders Expo, there was a woman selling baby possums for $50. Yes, any stupid person could have a baby possum for a very small price. I am not implying that you are stupid, Cat. You have probably checked out what is needed to care for a possum. But think of the general population......and then think of these same people with a baby possum purchased impulsively. Yeah, they are cute when they are babies, most things are, but how many people are up on possum behavior and care.
Did you know there are breeders of designer colored racoons?
So, this breeder of possums (of the Texas variety, (I asked )) was in Eastern Wa and her place was called The Zoo. I don't know if they are still in business or not.
You're right, i remember now- the vet I talked to said that people are breeding raccoons and skunks in different colors. I think people also breed armadillos for the pet trade. The baby raccoon I had (a local rescue) went to the PAWS wild animal release program after a few weeks in my care- it became so obvious I couldn't care for him when he got bigger. They are fascinating animals but smarter than most humans and equipped with hands, so they can get in a lot more trouble than a naughty dog. Giving up a "game animal" is tough, since the state licenses people to trap them and turn them into little rugs.
The man from Sarvey said they had a tame possum that couldn't be re-released after it recovered from it's injuries, so it lived with them and watched television with him at night.
Dr Maas had a Virginia Opossum at the Captive Breeders Expo this year that was a recovery animal that he had adopted. Fascinating story on the history of those animals, brought to the west coast for food and escaped into the wild.
Anyway he said that it was one of the very best animals he has ever owned! Self-trained itself for litter box use, very very attention loving, and friendly. He said officially as a vet he tells people to leave wild animals in the wild, but there are a couple people breeding them and skunks for the pet trade and he seemed to think that wasn't a bad idea.
Since this whole forum exists for people who keep and breed wild animals in captivity, we can't be too snooty about it! But I do have to agree with the jist of what Staci said about uninformed impulse buyers. Our critters (reptiles) are very content to be in a big, warm habitat, and they don't seem to suffer from the kind of cage insanity that afflicts more intelligent animals who are caged. Of course, there are people who keep raccoons and skunks so that they have the free run of the house, (uh-oh!) or at least a lot of supervised free time. It can certainly be done so that the animal is happy and the caretaker is too. But I think it's like the impulse buy of a baby burmese- so many people don't look down the road and anticipate future problems. The vet I spoke to told me in no uncertain terms what life would be like for an adult raccoon imprinted on humans if I was unable for any reason to devote mass amounts of time, money and space to it. I had too many obligations already that didn't sync with it- parrots, (potential prey!) dogs, etc., to say nothing of my human care-giving obligations. I tearfully turned my rescued baby raccoon over to the wild animal section of PAWS while he was still young enough to be a real wild animal. I've always been sorry, but I've always known I'd have been sorrier if I had kept him.
I think it has a lot to do with the animal. I've heard very few stories of Raccoons in captivity being good animals to keep. However I am told repeatedly by skunk and Opossum owners that they are incredible animals to keep. Well trained for litter box use, extremely friendly and inquisitive. And most of them allow the animals unrestricted access to the house like a dog or cat. An aquaintance says she would choose her skunks over her dogs and cats any day.
I think you're right- my impression of raccoons has always been that they are very smart predators, while opossums and skunks may fit more into the laid-back omnivore category. I'm not a biologist though, so I'd welcome info from those that know.
While I was feeding that baby raccoon, it would lay in my arms and reach up with it's little hands and touch my face like a human baby. What a thrill. I've never forgotten it.
Hmm, I'll have to find my pics of my uncle's raccoons. I've got some somewhere. My uncle is in southern Texas, the Rio Grande Valley, and since my family loves all sorts of odd critters, people bring them animals they find. Someone brought Eugene a baby raccoon about 15 years ago. He raised her as a pet, but once she reached maturity, every time she went into heat she became dangerous. So, they built her a large hutch out in the yard, about 8'X4'X4' with a roof, on stilts. It had thick branches for climbing and a box for sleeping. She was sweet, so long as she wasn't in heat, and you could sit in the hutch with her she would check you out and beg for treats. She would snatch up cookies with her paws and take them over to the water bucket to wash them. She liked to pull at metal studs on jeans and would stick her paw down your pants if she could! Eugene wouldn't take in healthy baby raccoons after her, but eventually he was brought a couple of blind ones and he kept them. I'm not sure what their average life span is, but he had them for years. They were very high maintenance.
Jennifer
An interesting thing I found while researching this is that captive 'possums are ****e to a disease that many of us herpers are quite familiar with- Metabolic Bone Disease. Apparently many people make the mistake of over-feeding their 'possums phosphorus-high meat products, canned dog food, etc. The calcium/phosphorus balance is key to preventing MBD. I know that with tortoises you want quite a bit more calcium in the diet than phosphorus, something like 5-8Ca/1P, and meat products are notoriously high in P. and low in Ca., which is why meat is a no-no for most tortoises. How interesting that Opossums would be ****e to the same disease. I wonder why. Dr Maas, where are you?
Gorf, why can't I say P R O N E on our website?
Cecelia, people breed possums for pets. Many years ago at the Captive Breeders Expo, there was a woman selling baby possums for $50. Yes, any stupid person could have a baby possum for a very small price. I am not implying that you are stupid, Cat. You have probably checked out what is needed to care for a possum. But think of the general population......and then think of these same people with a baby possum purchased impulsively. Yeah, they are cute when they are babies, most things are, but how many people are up on possum behavior and care.
Did you know there are breeders of designer colored racoons?
So, this breeder of possums (of the Texas variety, (I asked )) was in Eastern Wa and her place was called The Zoo. I don't know if they are still in business or not.
I hear you there. Low prices on 'exotics' tend to bring out the 'impulse buyers' who don't care a wink about care or comfort of the animal in question. I met up with a breeder of racoons and skunks last year at an expo. She told me all about the different colors being bred right now. I'd love a skunk, unfortunately they are illegal to own in Washington state. Racoons do not make good pets!!! Just my opinion.
There's a texas variety of possums?
You're right, i remember now- the vet I talked to said that people are breeding raccoons and skunks in different colors. I think people also breed armadillos for the pet trade. The baby raccoon I had (a local rescue) went to the PAWS wild animal release program after a few weeks in my care- it became so obvious I couldn't care for him when he got bigger. They are fascinating animals but smarter than most humans and equipped with hands, so they can get in a lot more trouble than a naughty dog. Giving up a "game animal" is tough, since the state licenses people to trap them and turn them into little rugs.
The man from Sarvey said they had a tame possum that couldn't be re-released after it recovered from it's injuries, so it lived with them and watched television with him at night.
I wouldn't want an armadillo for a pet... a lot of them carry leprosy! I hope anyone captive-breeding them doesn't breed leprosy into any destined for pets.
I used to deliver animals from my local shelter to PAWS. Any 'common pest' animal, such as raccoons, possoms, they were euthanized. That was a few years ago, I certtainly hope they've changed by now.
Dr Maas had a Virginia Opossum at the Captive Breeders Expo this year that was a recovery animal that he had adopted. Fascinating story on the history of those animals, brought to the west coast for food and escaped into the wild.
Anyway he said that it was one of the very best animals he has ever owned! Self-trained itself for litter box use, very very attention loving, and friendly. He said officially as a vet he tells people to leave wild animals in the wild, but there are a couple people breeding them and skunks for the pet trade and he seemed to think that wasn't a bad idea.
I left a message for him yesterday. Couldn't imagine eating a possum! (same goes for raccoon, skunk, etc) I don't see anything wrong with captive-bred animals, provided they are healthy and well taken care of.
I think it has a lot to do with the animal. I've heard very few stories of Raccoons in captivity being good animals to keep. However I am told repeatedly by skunk and Opossum owners that they are incredible animals to keep. Well trained for litter box use, extremely friendly and inquisitive. And most of them allow the animals unrestricted access to the house like a dog or cat. An aquaintance says she would choose her skunks over her dogs and cats any day.
My family kept two raccoons years before I was born, both orphans. I've been told tales multiple times of how destructive they can be. Seeing how the ones wild in my neighborhood turn over garbage cans, chase dogs and chase cats, no thanks! I have known a few people who have kept possums and told me the same thing.
An interesting thing I found while researching this is that captive 'possums are ****e to a disease that many of us herpers are quite familiar with- Metabolic Bone Disease. Apparently many people make the mistake of over-feeding their 'possums phosphorus-high meat products, canned dog food, etc. The calcium/phosphorus balance is key to preventing MBD. I know that with tortoises you want quite a bit more calcium in the diet than phosphorus, something like 5-8Ca/1P, and meat products are notoriously high in P. and low in Ca., which is why meat is a no-no for most tortoises. How interesting that Opossums would be ****e to the same disease. I wonder why. Dr Maas, where are you?
You are correct! I have been told Opossums need a good, balanced diet with very little meat products for them to be healthy in captivity. Makes me wonder what happens to those eating out of garbage cans and cat food bowls!
When I took my little Raccoon in to PAWS, they said they absolutely did not euthanize them, that Fish and Game released them out away from people, and they had about 20 orphaned babies at the moment. They were fairly nasty to me for presuming to keep it for the few weeks that I had kept it already.
I found my raccoon pics. I hadn't uploaded the ones I took from our trip, back in 2002, but the memory stick was fine. These were taken with our old Sony camcorder and are nowhere near the quality of new cameras, but you can see the white eyes. Both raccoons are totally blind.
http://www.kizandjenn.com/critters/raccoon1.jpg
http://www.kizandjenn.com/critters/raccoon2.jpg
http://www.kizandjenn.com/critters/raccoon3.jpg
They would stick their paws out to get treats, but then of course have trouble getting the food back through the wire! They'd manage it, they have really impressive dexterity. You can tell they were a little chunky. I'm not sure what they were fed.
Jennifer
snakegirl70
12-08-2006, 17:54
I had a possum several years ago, named her Daffodil... her mom decided to die in our back yard with a pouch full of babies...we bottle raised them, and adopted them out...didn't know at the time, but our native possums here in WA are endangered, and illegal to keep as pets..... I had her until she was almost a year old, she got along with my cat, used a litter box, went places with me in a sheepskin lined pouch my mom made me...then my landlord found out I had her...UGH! I was forced to take her to PAWS up in Lynwood, where they rehab and release them into the wild....or should I say rehab and release them to a certain death by motor vehicle! Average lifespan for one in the wild is maximum a year and a half, in captivity, it's more than 10 years!
I miss my Daffodil!!
snakegirl70
12-08-2006, 17:57
I used to deliver animals from my local shelter to PAWS. Any 'common pest' animal, such as raccoons, possoms, they were euthanized. That was a few years ago, I certtainly hope they've changed by now.
OMG....I hope they changed....I had to take Daffodil there in the late 90's.....they said they would rehab/release...... if they euthanized her then they are big F-ing liars! (ok now I'm upset!)
snakegirl70
12-08-2006, 17:59
You are correct! I have been told Opossums need a good, balanced diet with very little meat products for them to be healthy in captivity. Makes me wonder what happens to those eating out of garbage cans and cat food bowls!
they are omnivorous....I fed mine canned dog food and fruits and vegetables.... they are also scavengers, so they really aren't that picky! (mine was very healthy)
This is pretty interesting. Snakegirl, I'm not sure why you were told that native possums are endangered, but actually, they aren't categorized that way because they aren't native to Washington, they are an introduced species. One website said they weren't sure whether or not they can be re-introduced into the wild, because they are considered an invasive "pest" species. However, I know that Sarvey Wild Animal rehab told us they release when possible and never kill.
I found a draft report online from the WA State Board of Health about Zoonotic diseases from 2004. They listed various state regs about exotic and wild animals. Here's WA:
The state does not require persons possessing exotic animals to
obtain a permit. This is governed by city or county regulations.
However, persons who are bringing exotic animals into the state are
required to obtain a health certificate from a veterinarian and present
it to the Department of Agriculture. (Department of Agriculture)
WAC 16-54-035
It is unlawful to import bats, skunks, foxes, raccoons, or coyotes without a permit from the Department of Agriculture. It is also unlawful to acquire, sell, barter, exchange, give, purchase, or trap for retention as a pet or for export any bat, skunk, fox, raccoon, or coyote. (Department of Health) WAC 246-100- 191(2)
Washington It is unlawful to import into the state or to hold live wildlife that were taken, held, possessed or transported contrary to federal or state law, local ordinance or department rule. Live wild animals, wild birds or
game fish shall not be imported without first presenting to the
department the health certificate required by the Washington State
Department of Agriculture under WAC 16-54-030. 4) It is unlawful to
possess or hold in captivity live wild animals, wild birds, or game fish
unless lawfully acquired and possessed. (Department of Fish &
Wildlife). WAC 232-12-064
snakegirl70
12-08-2006, 23:09
This is pretty interesting. Snakegirl, I'm not sure why you were told that native possums are endangered, but actually, they aren't categorized that way because they aren't native to Washington, they are an introduced species.
If that is the case, and was the case back then, I don't know why I was told that either...both PAWS and my evil landlord were adamant. Of course they could have been full of it too, just because a) the landlord didn't like that I had it in the building, b) PAWS doesn't think "wild things" should be in a domestic situation.... who knows, it was 8 years ago. If I can find pics of Daffodil I'll post them, she was adorable!
Well, PAWS does a lot of good stuff, but in my experience they are frequently staffed by obnoxiously self-righteous people. I'm very upset by the possibility that they were euthanizing raccoons (and possums) as Cat said. That is absolutely the opposite of what they told me.
This is pretty interesting. Snakegirl, I'm not sure why you were told that native possums are endangered, but actually, they aren't categorized that way because they aren't native to Washington, they are an introduced species. One website said they weren't sure whether or not they can be re-introduced into the wild, because they are considered an invasive "pest" species. However, I know that Sarvey Wild Animal rehab told us they release when possible and never kill.
I found a draft report online from the WA State Board of Health about Zoonotic diseases from 2004. They listed various state regs about exotic and wild animals. Here's WA:
The state does not require persons possessing exotic animals to
obtain a permit. This is governed by city or county regulations.
However, persons who are bringing exotic animals into the state are
required to obtain a health certificate from a veterinarian and present
it to the Department of Agriculture. (Department of Agriculture)
WAC 16-54-035
It is unlawful to import bats, skunks, foxes, raccoons, or coyotes without a permit from the Department of Agriculture. It is also unlawful to acquire, sell, barter, exchange, give, purchase, or trap for retention as a pet or for export any bat, skunk, fox, raccoon, or coyote. (Department of Health) WAC 246-100- 191(2)
Washington It is unlawful to import into the state or to hold live wildlife that were taken, held, possessed or transported contrary to federal or state law, local ordinance or department rule. Live wild animals, wild birds or
game fish shall not be imported without first presenting to the
department the health certificate required by the Washington State
Department of Agriculture under WAC 16-54-030. 4) It is unlawful to
possess or hold in captivity live wild animals, wild birds, or game fish
unless lawfully acquired and possessed. (Department of Fish &
Wildlife). WAC 232-12-064
Thanks for posting this. I'm currently talking with a breeder in texas who is acquiring veterinary certificates for several short-tailed opossums I will hopefully be bringing into the state this January.
The reason bats, skunks, foxes, raccoons, and coyotes have such restrictions is due to rabies and distemper diseases. As far as I know, skunks, native bats, native fox, and raccoons are illegal to own here. They can, however, be owned in the state of oregon.
Reptiles are also not considered wild animals and appear to have no restrictions about ownership or transport in WA, except a few cities and counties which do have restrictions.
Well, PAWS does a lot of good stuff, but in my experience they are frequently staffed by obnoxiously self-righteous people. I'm very upset by the possibility that they were euthanizing raccoons (and possums) as Cat said. That is absolutely the opposite of what they told me.
If the animal is considered an 'over-abundant' or 'pest' animal, it is often euthanized. Same goes for any animal needing extensive medical care. I brought a Blue Heron to them at once point and was told a month later that it was euthanized due to extensive injury (it had a broken wing).
OMG....I hope they changed....I had to take Daffodil there in the late 90's.....they said they would rehab/release...... if they euthanized her then they are big F-ing liars! (ok now I'm upset!)
I volunteered for animal transport back in 2002. So perhaps they weren't back then. I hope!
Cat, the complete text that I pulled that info. from is online at
http://www.doh.wa.gov/SBOH/Meetings/Meetings_2004/2004-10_06/documents/Tab08-Zoonotics_DraftReport.pdf
It is dated Oct. 2004 and was the draft by a Health Dept.committee about Zoonotic diseases.
Elsewhere in this forum people have asked about how to find out the Municipal codes that restrict animal ownership. There is a search engine that will pull up info on various regulations in the state, at:
http://www.mrsc.org/codes.aspx
Most of us know that in Olympia you're not supposed to own constrictors over 8 feet. Also, I was surprised to find out that Reticulated Pythons are specifically prohibited in Everett. (But as far as I can tell, Ancondas are not!)
Also, I was surprised to find out that Reticulated Pythons are specifically prohibited in Everett. (But as far as I can tell, Ancondas are not!)
Can't say that totally surprises me. We have seen laws crop up (including the dreaded HB1151) that are poorly written and include some animals but fail to cover extremely dangerous ones. Dave Hall pointed out that it bans certain lizards, but by way of lack-of-mention doesn't ban Gila Monsters or Komodo dragons.
Cat, the complete text that I pulled that info. from is online at
http://www.doh.wa.gov/SBOH/Meetings/Meetings_2004/2004-10_06/documents/Tab08-Zoonotics_DraftReport.pdf
It is dated Oct. 2004 and was the draft by a Health Dept.committee about Zoonotic diseases.
Elsewhere in this forum people have asked about how to find out the Municipal codes that restrict animal ownership. There is a search engine that will pull up info on various regulations in the state, at:
http://www.mrsc.org/codes.aspx
Most of us know that in Olympia you're not supposed to own constrictors over 8 feet. Also, I was surprised to find out that Reticulated Pythons are specifically prohibited in Everett. (But as far as I can tell, Ancondas are not!)
Not so. Constrictors are OK in Olympia and thurston county, but they have to be licensed via animal services. The only reason that is in place is so if one gets loose, they know who to contact.
thanks, Cat- I must have been reading too fast and misunderstood.
I knew someone that got a 'possum from this person www.ratkateersrodentry.com. It was litter box trained about as well as a ferret, ate zupreem omnivore diet as well as fresh veggies and chicken (bone in), and microchipped. Overall I'd say they are more trouble than they are worth. They aren't really affectionate and aren't really great pets(even though this one was captive bred etc) and I'd take the stank of ferret over the stank of opossum poo. In hindsight I'd get a rabbit or ferret over an opossum any day of the week, although they don't have the 'I have an opposum' value ;-) They don't play, they don't have fun, they just *are*. I'm okay with that if I'm dealing with a snake, but something that requires that much work I enjoy more in return as far as pets go.
I only skimmed the responses, but they are legal in WA, you just have to have proof that they are captive bred *out of state*. They also have the bonus of not needing a rabies vaccine.
We met this guy at the Market on Christmas Eve. He said he's re-habbing this little girl for release in the wild. (I tried to get her for you, Cat, but he was adamant.) I think he's making a big mistake to tame her and habituate her to humans if she's really going to be released. She was very sweet.
I have seen that guy several times at the market. And I haven't been there in a year............
He said this possum is recent, that he rehabs them frequently. Still, I think if you want to rehab and release an animal, especially something like a possum, skunk, or raccoon, that gravitates towards human areas anyway, it's a big disservice to the animal to tame it. He was allowing everyone to pet it and he's wandering around a public place with it cuddled up on his shoulder. I told him I knew someone who would give it a good home but he said "No, it needs to be in the wild." Which I don't actually disagree with, but I think that this little critter will probably be heading back to the bright lights of the city 5 minutes after she's dropped off in the woods. On the other hand, I've never rehabbed a possum, so what do I know?
We met this guy at the Market on Christmas Eve. He said he's re-habbing this little girl for release in the wild. (I tried to get her for you, Cat, but he was adamant.) I think he's making a big mistake to tame her and habituate her to humans if she's really going to be released. She was very sweet.
Awww thanks for trying, Cecilia! I think he's making a big mistake too, esp. considering they aren't really a native species and she'll always think humans = food source. :(
sshalimar16
01-02-2007, 18:01
I am a wildlife rehabber, and I work mostly with opossums and squirrels, although we have taken various birds as well. I read some posts where someone was looking for a Virginia opossum. As someone who has cared for many, many possums and have taken in many non-releaseables to live out their lives with us, I would like to caution you. Know what you are doing, and what you are getting into! A possum is not an animal to be caged and the correct diet is very important. Too much fruit, too much protein can cause MBD and that is only the tip of the iceberg. I have seen many opossums turned into pets by people who did not know any better that ended up sick, or in miserable living conditions. These cute little babies can grow into quite formidable adults, and they have 50 razor sharp teeth and jaws like a pit bull. Males especially can be unpredictable. Of course we have had many sweet ones too, but not all possums like living in captivity. I would be open to talking to anyone interested in learning about them, homes are often needed for non-releaseable possums who have handicaps or other health issues. But I do not condone the breeding of them for the pet trade and it is illegal to do so in the state of Washington. It is not so much that I think they make bad pets, it is that I don't think most people have a clue about their care requirements and in the end, the animals suffer because of it.
Laura sshalimar16@msn.com
Laura, that is great advice! And I am sure that it isn't a lot different from what we experience with reptiles. Reptiles aren't domesticated animals either and fall into the "can be unpredictable" category as well.
I would be really interested in coming and checking out your setup! I think they are adorable animals and would be interested in seeing some rehab work in action.
I am a wildlife rehabber, and I work mostly with opossums and squirrels, although we have taken various birds as well. I read some posts where someone was looking for a Virginia opossum. As someone who has cared for many, many possums and have taken in many non-releaseables to live out their lives with us, I would like to caution you. Know what you are doing, and what you are getting into!
I know what I am doing, I have had a few friends who have owned opossums who have given me many care tips.
I would be open to talking to anyone interested in learning about them, homes are often needed for non-releaseable possums who have handicaps or other health issues.
I'd love to talk to you more about it, perhaps I could visit your rescue facility sometime?
But I do not condone the breeding of them for the pet trade and it is illegal to do so in the state of Washington.
Not so. Opossums are NOT native to Washington state. Because of this, they can be bred like any "exotic" mammal provided the breeder has a USDA licensed breeding facility (which is a bunch of jumps though hoops in itself). They can also be kept as personal pets without a license.
BTW they are actually natives of South America, but have migrated across the US for various reasons. They are here in WA mostly because some idiot or idiots decided they were a good food source. Unfortunately the opossums either escaped or were set loose when the opossums as food fad ended.
To quote http://www.bobpickett.org/order_didelphimorphia.htm
"The one South American marsupial species that has successfully established a range in North America is the Virginia opossum. The success of the opossum is undoubtedly tied to it’s omnivorous diet, adaptable habitat, and high fecundity. (Only two other South American species have established a range in North America; the placental porcupine and nine-banded armadillo.)"
Another interesting fact from that website:
"The opossum is unique in it's resistance to envenomation by poisonous snakes. Anesthetized opossums have been subjected to bites from diamondback and timber rattlesnakes, cottonmouth moccasins, Russell's viper and common Asiatic cobra, with no tissue reaction other than the fang punctures."
While I'd never repeat that test myself, that's a great evolutionary success!
"The opossum is unique in it's resistance to envenomation by poisonous snakes.
*ahem* what kind of snakes? hehehe
*ahem* what kind of snakes? hehehe
The classic herp blunder:o ....saying poisonous when you clearly meant venemous. We forgive you Cat.....:D
"You fool! You fell victim to one of the classic blunders! The most famous is never get involved in a land war in Asia, but only slightly less well-known is this: never go in against a Sicilian when death is on the line! Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha! Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha! Ha ha ha... "
:) An easy quote to place, I know...but I do like it so much....:)
Fortunately I don't think it was Cat's quote, I think she was copy and pasting from elsewhere.
staci_baisch
01-03-2007, 12:16
"You fool! You fell victim to one of the classic blunders! The most famous is never get involved in a land war in Asia, but only slightly less well-known is this: never go in against a Sicilian when death is on the line! Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha! Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha! Ha ha ha... "
:) An easy quote to place, I know...but I do like it so much....:)
Ah ha ha ha ha ha ha! Ha ha ha ha! :D
I'm confused.................
I'm confused.................
Hey Cecillia, this is an excerpt from a longer interaction in a very funny (but very silly) movie called "The Princess Bride". Below is the full interaction:
Man in Black: All right. Where is the poison? The battle of wits has begun. It ends when you decide and we both drink, and find out who is right... and who is dead.
Vizzini: But it's so simple. All I have to do is divine from what I know of you: are you the sort of man who would put the poison into his own goblet or his enemy's? Now, a clever man would put the poison into his own goblet, because he would know that only a great fool would reach for what he was given. I am not a great fool, so I can clearly not choose the wine in front of you. But you must have known I was not a great fool, you would have counted on it, so I can clearly not choose the wine in front of me.
Man in Black: You've made your decision then?
Vizzini: Not remotely. Because iocane comes from Australia, as everyone knows, and Australia is entirely peopled with criminals, and criminals are used to having people not trust them, as you are not trusted by me, so I can clearly not choose the wine in front of you.
Man in Black: Truly, you have a dizzying intellect.
Vizzini: Wait til I get going! Now, where was I?
Man in Black: Australia.
Vizzini: Yes, Australia. And you must have suspected I would have known the powder's origin, so I can clearly not choose the wine in front of me.
Man in Black: You're just stalling now.
Vizzini: You'd like to think that, wouldn't you? You've beaten my giant, which means you're exceptionally strong, so you could've put the poison in your own goblet, trusting on your strength to save you, so I can clearly not choose the wine in front of you. But, you've also bested my Spaniard, which means you must have studied, and in studying you must have learned that man is mortal, so you would have put the poison as far from yourself as possible, so I can clearly not choose the wine in front of me.
Man in Black: You're trying to trick me into giving away something. It won't work.
Vizzini: IT HAS WORKED! YOU'VE GIVEN EVERYTHING AWAY! I KNOW WHERE THE POISON IS!
Man in Black: Then make your choice.
Vizzini: I will, and I choose - What in the world can that be?
Vizzini: [Vizzini gestures up and away from the table. Roberts looks. Vizzini swaps the goblets]
Man in Black: What? Where? I don't see anything.
Vizzini: Well, I- I could have sworn I saw something. No matter.First, let's drink. Me from my glass, and you from yours.
Man in Black, Vizzini: [they drink ]
Man in Black: You guessed wrong.
Vizzini: You only think I guessed wrong! That's what's so funny! I switched glasses when your back was turned! Ha ha! You fool! You fell victim to one of the classic blunders! The most famous is never get involved in a land war in Asia, but only slightly less well-known is this: never go in against a Sicilian when death is on the line! Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha! Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha! Ha ha ha...
Vizzini: [Vizzini stops suddenly, and falls dead to the right]
Buttercup: And to think, all that time it was your cup that was poisoned.
Man in Black: They were both poisoned. I spent the last few years building up an immunity to iocane powder.
Of course if you were confused about Cat's quoted statement, the term poisonous (something that can hurt you if you injest it) was used where the term venemous (something that can hurt you by "attacking" you) should have been used.
It's worth noting that there is no such thing as a poisonous snake. Unless there is some obscure one that i'm unaware of.
staci_baisch
01-03-2007, 14:01
Scott, I am truly amazed at YOUR dizzying intellect. Wow, you were able to correctly recite that scene in it's entirety. I bow before the god of Princess Bride. My favorite movie!
and there is gorf valiantly keeping us on topic...;)
Scott, I am truly amazed at YOUR dizzying intellect. Wow, you were able to correctly recite that scene in it's entirety. I bow before the god of Princess Bride. My favorite movie!
and there is gorf valiantly keeping us on topic...;)
I absolutely love this movie. SOOOOO many great lines. I will admit though that while I can quote many of them, my memory is not infallible. I "borrowed" the lines from this website:
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0093779/quotes
[Fencing]
Inigo Montoya: You are wonderful.
Man in Black: Thank you; I've worked hard to become so.
Inigo Montoya: I admit it, you are better than I am.
Man in Black: Then why are you smiling?
Inigo Montoya: Because I know something you don't know.
Man in Black: And what is that?
Inigo Montoya: I... am not left-handed.
[Moves his sword to his right hand and gains an advantage]
Man in Black: You are amazing.
Inigo Montoya: I ought to be, after 20 years.
Man in Black: Oh, there's something I ought to tell you.
Inigo Montoya: Tell me.
Man in Black: I'm not left-handed either.
[Moves his sword to his right hand and regains his advantage]
.....And then something about opossums....
Well, I'm blown away by the dizzying intellect of all of you!
I haven't seen The Princess Bride in years- the only quote I remember is "My name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die.... My name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die.... My name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die...." I frequently recite it to myself through gritted teeth when some jerk cuts me off on the freeway. It always makes me feel better....
(Of course I knew about "poisonous" vs "venomous"- mentioning it is one of my favorite ways to appear superior and knowledgeable when some non-herper calls a snake poisonous!)
Now I have to go out and rent The Princess Bride.
staci_baisch
01-03-2007, 15:02
Cecelia, that, too, is my favorite quote. Along with "He's only most dead" and "I'm not a witch, I'm your wife"
Well, I'm blown away by the dizzying intellect of all of you!
I haven't seen The Princess Bride in years- the only quote I remember is "My name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die.... My name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die.... My name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die...." I frequently recite it to myself through gritted teeth when some jerk cuts me off on the freeway. It always makes me feel better....
(Of course I knew about "poisonous" vs "venomous"- mentioning it is one of my favorite ways to appear superior and knowledgeable when some non-herper calls a snake poisonous!)
Now I have to go out and rent The Princess Bride.
You mean you don't already own a copy? *gasp* :)
That movie was a favorite of our social group in college. I love the Rodents of Unusual size!
Jennifer
I'm so, so, old............
Just cause this thread id making my day so far... :D
http://www.whootis.com/pics/cats/1160262471377.b.jpg
I see your kitten, and raise you a rabbit!
http://www.kizandjenn.com/misc/shamesu6.jpg
Jenn
/I promise, I won't post more... unless provoked!
//I've had waaay too much suger today
/// This is my 100th post! woot!
You mean you don't already own a copy? *gasp* :)
That movie was a favorite of our social group in college. I love the Rodents of Unusual size!
Jennifer
[after Westley rescues her from the lightning quicksand]
Buttercup: We'll never succeed. We may as well die here.
Westley: No, no. We have already succeeded. I mean, what are the three terrors of the Fire Swamp? One, the flame spurt - no problem. There's a popping sound preceding each; we can avoid that. Two, the lightning sand, which you were clever enough to discover what that looks like, so in the future we can avoid that too.
Buttercup: Westley, what about the R.O.U.S.'s?
Westley: Rodents Of Unusual Size? I don't think they exist.
[Immediately, an R.O.U.S. attacks him]
snakegirl70
01-03-2007, 19:35
LOL, I love that movie!! I'm going to have to take time to watch it this weekend! :D
LOL, I love that movie!! I'm going to have to take time to watch it this weekend! :D
We just watched Robin Hood: Men in Tights on New Years, looks like I know what's up for next movie night!
Jennifer
Wasn't my quote, I took it from the website I linked to.
Hello everybody,
Sorry for jumping in here but I have caught an opossum and wanted to know if anyone wants it?
Pretty good sized one.
I have a young kitten and lets just say they don't get along. My wife is petrified of the things and they keep coming back over the course of a couple of weeks so need to get rid of them.
Please advise,
Mixer
P.S. I am in South Florida
Hello everybody,
Sorry for jumping in here but I have caught an opossum and wanted to know if anyone wants it?
Pretty good sized one.
I have a young kitten and lets just say they don't get along. My wife is petrified of the things and they keep coming back over the course of a couple of weeks so need to get rid of them.
Please advise,
Mixer
P.S. I am in South Florida
RELEASE IT BACK INTO THE WILD!!!!!!!!!!
There is absolutely no excuse for catching wild animals and keeping them in captivity. Unless it is injured or sick you need to release that animal. I believe Florida has laws about catching wildlife and you may be in violation of those laws. If it is injured or sick, then you should find a wildlife rehabilitator that can care for the animal until it is ready to be released.
Just caught another one in the garage. Roughly the same size probably male and female but I am not certain.
I took a picture of this one. I have tried to attach.
Would like to get rid of both at some time.
Yo Mixer, read my comments above. You CAN NOT advertise wild caught animals like yours on this board. Release those animals into a safe place. Catching them as "pets" is just flat out stupid.
Sorry just read your first post. I would not think anyone would want these things as pets. Just was curious if anyone had a use for them.
Looks like I will have to relocate myself.
Kind Regards,
Mixer
1. please consider the risk of rabies. while rare, do you really want to chance it? and what about non-fatal zoonoses that are just unpleasant, like fleas, mites, mange, etc....
2. if you ever run into a similar problem and you're not really sure what to do, may I please offer a suggestion?..sounds like you're sort of infested with these guys....CALL ANIMAL CONTROL. they may not come get it, but they can direct you to resources. your local public health office is also a place to call for available resources.
good luck
Gorf, I think we may have misunderstood Mixer- it sounds to me like he is not trying to go into the possum business, but is simply using live traps to capture what are generally regarded as "pest animals." (Not because they are possums, but because they are entering his garage.) That is usually legal almost everywhere, but many states require a permit for it.
Mixer, I hope you can find a place to release those guys that is far enough away from people that they can find a nice hollow tree instead of a garage!
I understood him. Catching and releasing nuisance animals is one thing. I do that on occasion. After catching them, he is offering them to people. Even if it was a pest animal, you can't catch it then offer it up for anyone to have. That is not legal in many places. Nor would the society condone that. Catch it humanely and move it out of the area, or call animal control.
1. please consider the risk of rabies. while rare, do you really want to chance it? and what about non-fatal zoonoses that are just unpleasant, like fleas, mites, mange, etc....
2. if you ever run into a similar problem and you're not really sure what to do, may I please offer a suggestion?..sounds like you're sort of infested with these guys....CALL ANIMAL CONTROL. they may not come get it, but they can direct you to resources. your local public health office is also a place to call for available resources.
good luck
Opossums don't carry rabies...
I beg to differ. please refer to www.cdc.gov. cases are rare, but opossums can certainly carry rabies and as I said, who wants to take the chance?
According to WDFW and the USDA, Opossums do not carry rabies. They can carry mange, fleas, ticks. I know Armadillos can carry Leprosy-yikes!
Wow, different governmet agencies with conflicting information....
Who would've thunk it???? How about if we just say that being bitten/scratched by an opossum would be bad. Agreed?
On a side note, this is now the longest and most-viewed thread that the PNWHS Forum has had. Congrats to all!!!!
According to WDFW and the USDA, Opossums do not carry rabies. They can carry mange, fleas, ticks. I know Armadillos can carry Leprosy-yikes!
You appear to be wrong on both cases:
Opossums can carry rabies, so wear heavy gloves and be wary of bites.
http://search.usda.gov/search?q=cache:NBti_CmEoawJ:http://www.aphis.usda.gov/ws/ca/prevention_and_control_factsheets/wildlife_damage_and_control_handbook_opossum.pdf+o possums+rabies&access=p&output=xml_no_dtd&ie=UTF-8&client=usda&num=10&site=usda&oe=UTF-8&proxystylesheet=OC
Opossums are carriers of many diseases: tuberculosis, relapsing fever, herpes virus, tularemia, salmonella, spotted fever, toxoplasmosis, coccidiosis, trichomoniasis, Chagas Disease, yellow fever, and rabies (rarely).
http://search.usda.gov/search?q=cache:9S0_VoTJL9oJ:http://www.aphis.usda.gov/ws/ca/caws_fact_sheets/california_ws_opossum.pdf+opossums+rabies&access=p&output=xml_no_dtd&ie=UTF-8&client=usda&num=10&site=usda&oe=UTF-8&proxystylesheet=OC
The rabies virus does not exist in Washington opossum populations, and for some unknown reason opossums rarely get rabies elsewhere.
http://wdfw.wa.gov/wlm/living/opossums.htm
Although it says that it is rare that they carry rabies, it definately indicates that it can. And although the WDFW site points out that it doesn't exist in WA, that doesn't mean it isn't here. It just means it hasn't been detected yet. Up until 1996 the UK stated that there was no Rabies in Britain... right up until someone contracted it from an animal bite.
Wolverton
01-07-2007, 04:24
RELEASE IT BACK INTO THE WILD!!!!!!!!!!
There is absolutely no excuse for catching wild animals and keeping them in captivity.
I am going to have to beg to differ on that line of reasoning. How do you think that ball python got on your head? If this were the case none of us should have any snakes or other herps at all.
To answer the origional question...
The WildSide in Puyallup carries what they call the Kachita Possum which I do belive is actually the Short Tailed Opossum... I can't remember how much they are asking, as far as price goes but I think it was around $75. They seem to be a pretty neat little critter!
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