Sugar Gliders are becoming more popular in the United States and no they are not flying squirrels.
They may look like cute little rodents, but Sugar Gliders are actually part of the marsupial family and are more closely related to Koala Bears and Kangaroos.
Native to the rainforests of Indonesia and Australia, Sugar Gliders have been bred as pets in the US for over a decade but many people do not consider the amount of care these petite exotic animals need to be happy, healthy and well socialized before bringing them home.
Sandra Seabrook cares for a variety of animals at Purpose Farm and her son Asher has taken over caring for two surrendered sugar gliders whose former pet parents were unprepared for the amount of attention these little guys need.
"He has taken the responsibility of taking care of them, and they have bonded pretty well to him but not to the point wherer they will stay on his body," Seabrook said. "They do know him, and recognize him and he is able to carry them around in a pouch and stuff."
In the wild Sugar Gliders live in colonies of about ten and will become lonely without the company of another sugar glider or a close connection with their human. If Sugar Gliders do not bond with their pet parents they can become fearful and aggressive and will bite if they are nervous. Young Asher has been working with Gabby for 3 years and is finally able to coax her into her pouch without being bitten.
Sugar Gliders also need a varied diet that should include fresh fruit, vegetables, protein, plain yogurt, meal worms and may also need a calcium supplement meant for small mammals.
Remember before you bring home any pet be sure to do your own research and be sure you have the time energy and resources to care for them properly.