Feathertail Glider

Acrobates pygmaeus

The Feathertail Glider (Acrobates pygmaeus) is a remarkable and diminutive marsupial native to the forests of eastern Australia. Characterized by its small size, this species measures only about 6.5 to 8 cm in body length, with an additional tail length of about 7 to 8 cm, making it one of the world's smallest gliding mammals. Its most distinctive features include a flat, feather-like tail that aids in its gliding ability and a membrane stretching from elbow to knee, enabling it to glide distances of over 20 meters between trees.

Feathertail Gliders possess a soft, silky fur coat, predominantly grey-brown on the back with a lighter, often creamy underside. Their large, forward-facing eyes are adapted for nocturnal living, allowing them to forage effectively at night. These arboreal creatures primarily feed on nectar, pollen, insects, and small arthropods, playing a crucial role in pollination and the ecosystem’s health.

Typically living in small groups within tree hollows, Feathertail Gliders are social animals that demonstrate strong bonding behavior. Despite their agility and ability to escape predators by gliding, they face threats from habitat loss due to deforestation and urban development. Conservation efforts are crucial to preserve their habitat and ensure the survival of this fascinating marsupial species.