How to Buy Sugar Gliders Online

Sugar gilders are adorable little animals that resemble miniature kangaroos, but with batlike wings they can spread to glide around their cage or your room. Buying a sugar glider online is not recommended, because you cannot determine its health condition or temperament. If online buying is your only option, take some steps to ensure your sugar glider arrives safe and sound.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Internet access
• Personal transportation

How to Buy Sugar Gliders Online

1. Sugar gliders do not travel well alone. If you are looking to get one as a pet, consider buying two, so they can make the trip together.

2. Never buy a discount sugar glider. Chances are that the glider is unhealthy (or that the pair you're getting are incompatible). Sugar gliders usually cost $200 to $400 each. Anything less should send up a red flag.

3. Buy a sugar glider that is under 14 weeks old. Bonding with a sugar glider needs to be done at an early age. Older gliders do not bond well with their new owners.

4. Look for a breeder who is located close enough to you that you can drive to his home or office for pickup. Many breeders will not ship sugar gliders because of the stress it causes the babies.

5. If sugar gliders are shipped, the flight must be same-day delivery. Reputable breeders will only ship in pairs or more. The reason is that sugar gliders become cold and lonely on a flight and die before arriving.

6. Only buy sugar gliders from licensed USDA breeders, to ensure the health of the animals upon delivery.

Tips & Warnings

• Sugar gliders that are shipped on planes become very stressed and need immediate attention as soon as they arrive at their destination.
• Do not buy older sugar gliders. They have already bonded with one person, and may have difficulty bonding with a new owner.