Sugar glider vs flying squirrel: they look alike, they both glide and both have big eyes, but they aren't related. A sugar glider is a marsupial from Australia and New Guinea, while a flying squirrel is a rodent. Their similar looks are a classic example of convergent evolution, where unrelated animals develop similar features because they live similar lives.
At SunCoast Sugar Gliders we've worked with gliders since 1999, and this is one of the most common mix-ups we hear. Here's how the two compare as animals and as pets.
Quick Comparison
| Sugar glider | Flying squirrel | |
|---|---|---|
| Animal group | Marsupial (pouched mammal) | Rodent |
| Native range | Australia, New Guinea and nearby islands | North America, Europe and Asia, depending on species |
| Joeys/young | Develop in the mother's pouch | Born in a nest |
| Teeth | Do not grow continuously | Incisors grow continuously |
| Active | At night | At night |
| Social style | Colony animal | Varies by species |
How They're Similar
- Gliding membrane: Both have a furry membrane, called a patagium, stretched between the front and back legs, letting them glide from tree to tree.
- Nocturnal: Both are active at night and have large eyes for seeing in low light.
- Arboreal: Both live mostly in trees.
- Size: Both are small, though size varies by species.
How They're Different
Marsupial vs. rodent
Sugar gliders are marsupials, like kangaroos and koalas. Females carry developing joeys in a pouch. Flying squirrels are rodents, related to tree squirrels and chipmunks, and raise their young in nests.
Teeth
Flying squirrels, like all rodents, have incisors that grow throughout life and need to be worn down by gnawing. Sugar glider teeth don't grow continuously and should never be trimmed. Read more in our guide to sugar glider teeth.
Diet
Sugar gliders are omnivores that eat insects, sap, gum, nectar and other foods. Flying squirrels eat nuts, seeds, fungi, insects and more, depending on species. Their dietary needs are different, so foods made for one aren't right for the other. Learn whether sugar gliders are omnivores.
Social needs
Sugar gliders are highly social and should be kept in pairs or groups.
Which Makes a Better Pet?
That depends on you. Sugar gliders are bred in captivity as pets, form strong bonds with their owners and have well-established care guidelines, though they're a big commitment. Flying squirrels are kept as pets in some places, but laws vary, and some species are protected wildlife. Always check local and state laws before getting any exotic pet. Our guide to whether sugar gliders are legal covers glider laws.
If you're deciding whether a glider fits your life, read do sugar gliders make good pets.
Can Sugar Gliders and Flying Squirrels Live Together?
No. They're different species with different needs, and they shouldn't share a cage.
Common Mistakes When Comparing
- Assuming similar care. Diets, social needs and housing differ
- Looking only at appearance. Their biology and behavior are quite different
- Skipping local laws. Rules for owning either animal vary by state and city
- Choosing on impulse. Both are long-term commitments that need research and an exotics vet
Before deciding, talk to an exotics vet about which animal fits your home and schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are sugar gliders a type of flying squirrel?
No. Sugar gliders are marsupials. Flying squirrels are rodents.
Who glides farther?
Both can glide impressive distances relative to their size. Distance depends on species, height and conditions.
Do sugar gliders and flying squirrels eat the same food?
No. Their diets differ. Gliders do best on a glider-specific staple such as Wholesome Balance chicken & brown rice plus produce and insects.
Can a sugar glider and a flying squirrel live together?
No. They're different species with different needs and behaviors, and housing them together can lead to stress, fights and the spread of illness. Keep each with companions of its own species.
Conclusion: Lookalikes, Not Relatives
Sugar gliders and flying squirrels share a gliding lifestyle but come from entirely different branches of the mammal family tree. If a sugar glider is the pet for you, start with premium nutrition from SunCoast sugar glider food. SunCoast Sugar Gliders, Since 1999. Orders of $30 or more ship free.