The Saci short-tailed opossum (Monodelphis saci), also known as gnome opossum, is a species of opossum endemic to the rainforests of Brazil.[1] [2]
They measure 9cmto12cmcm (04inchesto05inchescm) from their nose to the base of the tail. The tail measures 4to. They weigh around 17g30g. They have a conspicuous reddish head and brown rump and back. The chin, throat, groin and flanks are grayish-brown. There is a distinct central white streak on the chest and abdomen. Their paws are covered with short, light-brown hairs. Males are slightly larger than females.[3]
They live in the lowland rainforests along the south bank of the Brazilian Amazon.
Little is known about their behavior because of their very recent discovery.
They are named after mythical creatures called Saci in Brazilian folklore which wear a red hat to disappear and reappear at will. Scientists named them so because of their reddish-heads and the fact they eluded discovery for so long.[1]