Jimbo’s Animals Gone Wild: Stowaway Opossum Finds New Home At Alaska Zoo After Cargo Ship Journey

Jimbo's Animals Gone Wild: Stowaway Opossum Finds New Home At Alaska Zoo After Cargo Ship Journey

An opossum that stowed away on a cargo ship to Alaska has found a permanent home at the Alaska Zoo. Juneau Animal Rescue received reports of the loose opossum in the state capital. “In my mind, I’m not thinking it’s an opossum. I’m like, maybe it’s a seal point cat or something,” said Jordan Bales from Juneau Animal Rescue. Opossums are invasive species in Alaska but common in lower 48 states. The animal, initially named Chester, was easily captured without resistance or aggression. The Alaska Zoo renamed him Meatball and welcomed him as replacement for Grubby, another stowaway opossum who died in 2025. “We were all pretty excited that we were going to get another opossum at the zoo. Grubby left a hole when she left us,” said zoo’s Sam Lavin. Meatball appears nervous but shows healthy appetite for apples and chicken-flavored cat food. (Story URL)