Squirrel Glider

Petaurus norfolcensis

The squirrel glider (Petaurus norfolcensis) is a small gliding possum from eastern Australia, larger and longer-tailed than the better-known sugar glider. Grey fur, a dark stripe from nose to rump, cream underparts, and a membrane stretching from wrist to ankle give it the classic glider shape. It lives in eucalypt woodlands and forests where tree hollows provide dens and launch points. At night it feeds on nectar, pollen, sap, insects, and small amounts of other animal matter, moving between trees by controlled glides rather than ground travel.

Squirrel gliders are native wildlife, not routine household pets, and keeping or rehabilitating them is governed by local wildlife rules. Zoo and sanctuary care uses tall, complex enclosures with nest boxes, branches, browse, nectar substitutes, gum, and live insects to encourage natural climbing and foraging. Conservation work is especially tied to hollow-bearing trees, habitat corridors, nest-box programs, and control of cats and foxes. Wildlife carers handling orphaned or injured animals must also plan for social housing and release suitability, because an imprint-prone glider released into poor habitat has little chance.