Southern Four-eyed Opossum

The upper fur on this species is grayish, with darker underfur and darker near the ears and face. The underside is yellowish to whitish, with some gray colors near the sides, between the forearms, and on the bottom of the neck and jaw. It has two spots above each eye that are the same color as the underside. The tail is bald, and gray for half to two-thirds of its length, then white on the distal half to distal third. This species ranges in size from 230 mm (9.1 in) to 620 mm (24 in), averaging 487 mm (19.2 in). The tail length averages 262 mm (10.3 in) of this length, ranging from 170 mm (6.7 in) to 320 mm (13 in). Despite this wide range of sizes, there is no physical difference between populations across their range.

This species is found in southern Brazil, northeastern Argentina, and eastern Paraguay. Its range likely comes into contact with that of the common four-eyed opossum (P. canus) where the Atlantic Rainforest comes into contact with other forests, in Brazil and Paraguay. This is the only Philander species known from the Atlantic Rainforest. This species is endemic to the Atlantic Rainforest, where it occupies almost all habitats within the region. It has been recorded from lowland forests, submontane forests, costal scrub, and even agricultural fields.

Similar to its congeners, this species is a true omnivore, consuming fruits, flowers, seeds, invertebrates, carrion, and small vertebrates. This species specifically has been recorded feeding on seeds, birds, mammals, reptiles, and various invertebrates, with birds and beetles being the most common prey items. This species is primarily terrestrial, nocturnal, and solitary. Litters average roughly 3-6 young per litter.

== References ==

"quica" seems to come from a native name for this species. It is derived from the Portuguese word "cuíca", itself derived from a Tupi word.