Narrow-toed Feathertail Glider
Acrobates pygmaeus
The narrow-toed feathertail glider is the smallest gliding mammal in the world and is only 15g in weight with a head to body length of 65-80 mm, and tail length of 70-80mm. It can glide up to 20m from one tree to another. Their distinctive feather-like tail assists with steering and braking when gliding. They are a common species but are difficult to find because they are nocturnal, very small and prefer to occupy the tops of the canopy and are only occasionally found foraging on the ground.
Cats have become an increasingly common issue for feathertail gliders in recent years. Protecting this species that occupy our parks and gardens can be achieved by being responsible pet owners. Keeping cats indoors or fashioning them a collar with a bell are some simple ways to help stop feathertail gliders becoming your cat’s midnight snack.
Diet
The narrow-toed feathertail glider is an omnivorous species that feeds on nectar, pollen, eucalypt sap and insects. They have a brush-tipped tongue to collect nectar and ridged molars to crunch insects.
Breeding
Feathertails nest in groups of up to 20 individuals. They have long breeding seasons where females will often produce more than 1 litter of 3-4 young. High-pitched calls and scent markings help the young and mother recognize one another in the communal nests.
