A still more curious creature is Merian's opossum (Philander
dorsigerus). It has no true pouch, and the mother, therefore, while her
young are in their infancy, carries them on her back. From this
circumstance the name of _dorsigerus_, or back-bearing, has been given
to it. They cling to her fur with their little hand-like feet, while
they twine their tails round hers, which she places over her back in a
convenient position for that purpose. Other species of opossums carry
their young in the same manner,--some even which are furnished with
well-developed pouches.