Facts About Sugar Gliders

Sugar gliders have grown in popularity over the years and therefore we know more than ever about these adorable little marsupials. Petaurus breviceps is the Latin name for a sugar glider which means “short-headed rope-dancer.”

Lifespan

Sugar gliders live about 12 to 15 years in captivity so they are long-term pets.

Size

The sugar glider’s body is about five to six inches long and the tail adds another six inches (which acts as a rudder while they glide). They weigh only four to five and a half ounces (80 to 160 grams).

Origins

Sugar gliders are native to Australia (the Eastern part), Papua New Guinea, Tasmania, multiple surrounding islands, and parts of Indonesia. They are found in the rainforests gliding from tree to tree and make their homes in tree hollows. They rarely ever touch the ground.