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Feathertail glider

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description Feathertail glider Overview

The feathertail glider is a small marsupial native to eastern Australia. It’s notable for its unique semi-feathery tail which aids in precise aerial maneuvering and balance during gliding between trees. This extant species, belonging to the Acrobatidae family, is particularly interesting to biologists studying mammalian locomotion and adaptation. It's primarily observed by researchers and wildlife enthusiasts focused on Australian fauna.

help Feathertail glider FAQ

How small is the feathertail glider?

The feathertail glider, described by Shaw in 1793, is often cited as the world's smallest gliding mammal, weighing roughly 10 to 15 grams as an adult. Its tiny body size and distinctive flattened, stiff-fringed tail distinguish it from other Australian gliding possums like the sugar glider.

Where do feathertail gliders live in Australia?

Feathertail gliders are native to eastern Australia, where they inhabit forests and woodlands from Queensland through New South Wales and Victoria. They are arboreal and nocturnal, spending their nights foraging for nectar, pollen, and insects in the tree canopy.

How does the feathertail glider glide?

The feathertail glider uses a patagium—a thin membrane of skin stretching from the elbow to the knee—to glide between trees, similar to other gliding possums. Its distinctive flat, feather-like tail acts as a rudder to help steer and stabilize during flight.

Can you keep a feathertail glider as a pet?

In Australia, it is generally illegal to keep native wildlife like feathertail gliders as pets without special permits. These tiny marsupials have highly specialized dietary needs and are wild animals best observed in their natural habitat.

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