Portland, Oregon – A tiny opossum found wandering alone has settled into a new home at the Oregon Zoo.

The 9.5-ounce joey, named Nigel, was discovered behind an apartment building in Lebanon, Oregon.

He was estimated to be about three months old.

Nigel was first cared for by the Chintimini Wildlife Center, which worked with state wildlife officials to transfer him to the zoo.

“This little opossum had a rough start in life — he wouldn’t have survived long on his own,” said Eliza Lee, who oversees the zoo’s ambassador animal area.

Now living behind the scenes, Nigel is adjusting to his new surroundings.

Lee said he’s already showing his curious personality.

Eventually, she hopes Nigel will meet guests and help them understand his often-misunderstood species.

“People are sometimes scared of opossums but they’re lovable in their own way,” Lee said.

“We hope Nigel will help people connect to this unique species and learn more about what makes opossums so awesome.”

Opossums are the only marsupials found in North America.

According to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Virginia opossums were introduced to Oregon between 1910 and 1921.

They are now considered invasive in the Pacific Northwest.

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