The water opossum is a cute and unique creature found in Central and South America. It is also known as the yapok, yapock or water dog. The name "yapok" comes from a Tupi-Guarani word meaning "water dog". The water opossum is adapted for an aquatic lifestyle with webbed feet, a streamlined body, and thick fur that shields it from cold water. In addition to being a skilled swimmer, it is also a proficient climber and a nocturnal animal. Its diet mainly consists of fish and other aquatic creatures. Despite its name, the water opossum is not a true opossum and is not closely related to the North American opossum.