SQUIRREL GLIDER

In the quiet, moonlit nights of Australia’s dry sclerophyll forests and woodlands, a remarkable creature embarks on its nocturnal journey. The Squirrel Glider, a creature of beauty and agility, glides silently through the air, its presence known only to the most observant of nature’s enthusiasts. At first glance, one might mistake it for its more commonly known cousin, the Sugar Glider, yet upon closer inspection, the differences become clear. The Squirrel Glider, nearly twice the size, boasts a head and body length of 180 to 230 mm and a luxuriously bushy tail stretching from 220 to 300 mm, often longer than its body, much like the Sugar Glider.

Distinguishing between these two species might seem a challenge to the untrained eye, but it’s the Squirrel Glider’s more pointed face, slightly narrower and longer ears that set it apart. Yet, this magnificent creature is now facing challenges that threaten its very existence. Habitat loss and predation by cats have rendered the Squirrel Glider rare, a shadow in the forests it once thrived in.

The Squirrel Glider’s diet mirrors that of the Sugar Glider, feasting on the gum produced by Acacias, certain eucalypts, invertebrates, and the exudates of invertebrates. As the seasons turn and August arrives, the cycle of life begins anew with each female producing two young. These young spend their first 70 days developing in the safety of their mother’s pouch before moving to a communal nest, a cozy hollow lined with leaves. After an additional 30 days, they venture out with their mother into the night, foraging and gliding from tree to tree.

The art of gliding is a sight to behold. These creatures leap using their hind legs, extending membranes from the fifth finger to the first toe, steering and maintaining stability with the subtle adjustments of these membranes. They can glide for distances of up to 50 meters, landing gracefully on their target tree, a testament to their incredible adaptability and agility.

Predators such as Owls, Kookaburras, and Goannas pose natural threats, but it’s the domestic and feral cats that have significantly impacted their survival. For those who share their homes with cats, it’s imperative to keep them indoors at night and equip them with collars adorned with more than three bells, a small step towards protecting these gliders.

Across the states, the Squirrel Glider’s status varies, from vulnerable in New South Wales to threatened in Victoria, endangered in South Australia, and yet still common in Queensland. This variation highlights the importance of habitat preservation and the need for continued vigilance in the protection of these creatures.

Witnessing the Squirrel Glider in its natural habitat, observing its graceful glide from tree to tree, is an experience that connects us deeply to the wonders of the natural world. It serves as a poignant reminder of the beauty that exists in our backyard and the crucial role we play in its preservation. Let us cherish and protect these gliding marvels, for in doing so, we safeguard the intricate tapestry of life that enriches our planet.