Brazilian Gracile Opossum

The Brazilian gracile opossum (Gracilinanus microtarsus) is a species of small opossum from Brazil. == Description == Brazilian gracile opossums are relatively small opossums, with males ranging from 86 to 129 millimetres (3.4 to 5.1 in) and females from 81 to 116 millimetres (3.2 to 4.6 in) in snout-to-rump length. The tail is an additional several inches, and makes up between 30 and 50% of the animal's total length. Males weigh 17 to 52 grams (0.60 to 1.83 oz) and females from 12 to 37 grams (0.42 to 1.31 oz). The gracile opossum's coat comes in various colors and tones, including beige, sandy-or amber-tinted, with darker ears and extremities. Additionally, many individuals have fur that makes use of countershading, likely to avoid predators when in the trees. Much like whales, penguins, and numerous marine species, for example, countershading is the top half of an animal's body being colored darker than the lighter underbelly, and possibly extending to the chin. Gracile opossums often display reddish, dark brown or grey over most of their body, with paler, cream-colored undersides. This helps them stay camouflaged from threats in the trees, both from above and below. The fur on the face is also relatively…