Sugar Gliders
Natural
History
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Natural History
Sugar Gliders are marsupials from Australia and Indonesia. They are
tree dwelling, nocturnal creatures who often live in groups of 20 to 40.
They are soft gray animals with a black stripe running down their back,
and a gliding membrane they use much as a flying squirrel does.
Adult gliders weigh about 120 to 135 grams and are about 10 to 14
inches long from head to tip of tail, with their tail ranging from 6 to 8
inches. They can live 10 to 15 years if well cared for.
Their tails are used for balance and steering when gliding. If high enough,
a sugar glider can glide as far as 150 feet. Gliders also have opposable
fingers and toes. They can make a wide range of sounds such as chirping,
barking, chattering, and crabbing.
Sexing the Sugar Glider
Check the lower abdomen for a pouch opening in the female or for the fur-covered
testicles in the male. The bifurcated (forked) penis is located at the
base of the tail. Males develop a scent gland on the forehead that
they may rub on the female's chest. Males also have anal glands and scent
glands on the chest. Both sexes scent-mark territory.
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