While they look cute and cuddly, these are "high maintenance" exotic pets and are not suitable pets for small children. 

Sugar Gliders or Petaurus Breviceps loos very similar to a North American flying squirrel, but they are not.  Neither are sugar gliders rodents.  Sugar gliders are a marsupials related kangaroos and opossoms.  They are native to Australia and Indonesia.  Sugar gliders are nocturnal and are sensitive to light.  They are arboreal or tree-dwelling social creatures in the wild, preferring to live in colonies.  However, in captivity, this would require a very large enclosure. 

Most sugar gliders that are legally imported to the U.S. today are from Indonesia.  However, sugar gliders are prolific and many are being bred and overpopulated here in the United States. 

These exotic animals are intelligent and loving.  They can make wonderful pets under the right conditions.  Sugar gliders' average lifespan is 10-12 years if taken care of; however, it is not unusual that we hear of some living to 15 and 16 years of age. 

Sugar gliders have scent glands that produce a musky odor that may or may not be offensive to some people.  Intact or un-neutered males produce the strongest odor.  We find that neutered males quickly lose this strong odor and become equivalen to females with regard to producing odor.  However both female and male sugar gliders produce a musky odor. 

Sugar gliders require a large commitment of time (a minimum of 2 hours per day) and will change your lifestyle.  They require fresh foods every night and must have remaining food pulled every morning.  Cages, wheels and sleeping pouches must be cleaned (we recommend at least weekly).

Regardless of what you have heard or read, sugar gliders cannot be potty trained.  They will pee and poo on you!

Sugar gliders have very sharp nails that will require trimming.  There are products on the market that will help to reduce or eliminate the need for nail trimming - sandpaper inserts designed specifically for the type of running wheel you purchase may help. 

Sugar gliders are fairly hearty creatures if well taken care of; however, nature is not perfect.  Genetic anomalies and illnesses can occur.  Accidents happen and sugar gliders can and do require veterinary care.  Veterinary care for exotic animals is very costly and should be considered before purchasing a sugar glider. 

Sugar gliders can and often do bite if frightened.  They can draw blood.  However, a bonded sugar glider should not bite.  We believe that with proper bonding techniques, patience and love, most sugar gliders will bond to some degree.