Glider Basics

What is a sugar glider?

Sugar gliders are wonderful little animals who love and bond to their human friends. They have only been in the United States since about 1993.  They can live 12-15 years in captivity. 

Where do sugar gliders come from? Where do wild gliders live?

Sugar gliders in the wild live in the rainforests of Australia, New Guinea, Tasmania, and Indonesia.

What do wild gliders eat?

In the wild, the sugar glider diet consists mostly of gums and saps from trees, nectar, and insects. They are also known to eat eggs and small invertebrates.

Are gliders rodents?

No. Sugar gliders are marsupials (mammals that carry their young in a pouch); they are in the same family as the koala bear and the kangaroo.

Do gliders make sounds?

Sugar gliders are very social creatures and make many sounds, including barking, crabbing, clicking, and chattering. 

Can gliders swim?

No. Gliders can drown.

Glider Handling

How should I pick up my glider?

Gently place your hand in a cup shape under your glider's tummy and lift.

What is the best way to get my glider out of his sleeping pouch/bonding bag?

Take out the whole pouch, and entice your gliders out of their bag with a mealworm.

What should I do if my glider won’t come out of a small space?

First of all, do not get your face or fingers near the glider, as that can frighten him. Instead only look at your glider from the corner of your eye, and try offering your baby a mealworm or papaya treat. Also, be sure that the lights are dimmed, as the bright lights can also frighten your glider.