How to Buy a Sugar Glider

Sugar gliders are in the same family of species as kangaroos.

Because of their small size and status as an exotic pet, sugar gliders are an increasingly popular pet in many countries. Sugar gliders are small marsupials native to the Australia, New Guinea and Indonesia region of the world. Similar in size to an American chipmunk, gliders have long, bushy tails and bodies built to allow them to glide through the air up to 50 meters. Unfortunately, sugar gliders are not legal to own in parts of the United States and some other countries. If you're curious about or would like to own one of these tiny nocturnal pets, follow these steps to ownership.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Cage

How to buy a sugar glider

1. Make sure it is legal. Sugar gliders are not legal to own without a special permit (or at all) in Alaska, California, Georgia, Massachusetts, Maine and Utah. In some states, such as Kentucky, specific county or city rules prohibit owning sugar gliders as pets. First, check with your state's Fish & Wildlife Office. You can find contact information by visiting fws.gov. If it's not illegal at the state level, call your local animal control officer to see if there are any city ordinances prohibiting ownership in your neighborhood.

2. Research how to care for sugar gilders. These tiny critters might be cute, but they do require specialized handling and care, perhaps more so than other small pets. Sugar gliders are nocturnal and need constant handling and socialization as a baby in order to be people friendly. They also require special diets and habitats in order to grow up healthy and happy.

3. Research reputable breeders or find a rescue group. Some breeders obtain their animals illegally, while some sell sugar gliders that are unhealthy. You can also adopt homeless sugar gliders from animal rescue groups. Petfinder.com features listings for sugar gliders on occasion, and some specialized pet stores will sell them if it's legal in your location.

4. Prepare for your new pet. A sugar glider will require a large cage that allows it to glide short distances for exercise. Create cheap bedding by purchasing a plastic shoebox and placing a cushion inside for a bed.

5. Make your purchase. Expect to pay between $120 to $200 for one sugar glider. Each breeder's price will vary, but expect to pay a lower amount if you pay an adoption fee from a rescue group or animal shelter.

Resources

• United States Fish and Wildlife Service