Sugar Glider
Petaurus breviceps
Conservation Status
Least ConcernMammalia · Diprotodontia · Petauridae
About
The sugar glider is a small, omnivorous, arboreal, and nocturnal gliding possum. The common name refers to its predilection for sugary foods such as sap and nectar and its ability to glide through the air, much like a flying squirrel. They have very similar habits and appearance to the flying squirrel, despite not being closely related—an example of convergent evolution. The scientific name, Petaurus breviceps, translates from Latin as "short-headed rope-dancer", a reference to their canopy acrobatics.
Fun Fact
Sugar gliders have a patagium (gliding membrane) stretching from wrist to ankle that lets them glide over 50 metres between trees — they steer by adjusting the tension of this membrane.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Eucalyptus forests
Diet
Omnivore
Lifespan
10-12 years
Threats
- Wildfire
- Illegal Logging