Sugar gliders are popular exotic pets. These small, cute and unique marsupials are native to Australia and parts of Indonesia. In appearance, they resemble squirrels with gray fur and black markings.
Before keeping a sugar glider, you should make an effort to learn more about their types. Sugar gliders are not for beginner pet owners. These playful and social pets require frequent socializing and ample space for exercise. Therefore, you should expect to spend multiple hours per day tending to them. Plus, they have a very particular diet.
Behavior and temperament
Many people find pet sugar gliders to be cute and funny. Keep in mind that these animals are nocturnal. They are most active at night: they like to climb and move from place to place, if space allows it. During the day they usually sleep in a cozy nest.
Sugar gliders generally are not aggressive pets, but they will bite if they feel threatened or frightened.
In addition, these animals are rather vocal pets, and they have various sounds to let you know when they are upset, frightened or hungry.
Conditions of detention
Sugar gliders need a spacious home to live comfortably. The enclosure must be at least a meter high so that these small marsupials can safely climb and plan. Inside you need to place ropes, branches and various climbing equipment.
The latch on the cage door must be very secure, as gliders are very clever and have been known to learn how to open simple latches.
What to feed?
Sugar gliders have fairly strict dietary requirements. In the wild, their diet includes nectar and tree sap. Gliders are omnivorous, they eat plants and animals. They also consume fruits, insects, and even small birds or rodents.
When kept at home, honey, calcium powder and baby cereals are often used to ensure proper nutrition of the glider. Fresh fruits and vegetables should be offered in moderation, less than 10 percent of the total diet, because many lack essential vitamins, minerals and proteins and contain mostly water. Gliders are fed in small bowls in the morning and evening.
Lifespan
Sugar gliders live relatively long lives. In captivity, they can live 12-15 years or longer. Therefore, you must be prepared to provide them with the right care and medical care for many years.
