Sugar Glider Possum: Identification, Behaviour & Management in Sydney
Although not technically a possum, the Sugar Glider (Petaurus breviceps) is a small gliding marsupial that is sometimes mistaken for a possum due to its nocturnal habits and size. While they’re rarely considered pests, they can occasionally find their way into Sydney homes near bushland or reserves.
In this guide, we cover how to identify a sugar glider, where they’re found in and around Sydney, and what to do if one ends up in your property.
Quick Facts About Sugar Glider Possum
- Scientific name: Petaurus breviceps
- Size: 16–21 cm body length with a 15–20 cm tail
- Weight: 90–150 grams
- Habitat: Eucalypt forests, woodlands, and urban edges
- Special trait: A gliding membrane (patagium) that allows them to glide between trees
- Status: Protected native species in NSW
Are Sugar Gliders Actually Possums?
Sugar gliders are not possums, but they are closely related as both are marsupials. They belong to the family Petauridae, while possums are part of the Phalangeridae family. Despite the difference, people often refer to sugar gliders as “gliding possums” due to their size and tree-dwelling behaviour.
They do not cause the same property damage as brushtail or ringtail possums, but may occasionally enter man-made structures in semi-rural or bush-adjacent suburbs of Sydney.
How to Identify a Sugar Glider
Sugar gliders are easy to distinguish from true possums once you know what to look for:
- Soft grey fur with a black stripe running from the nose to mid-back
- Large black eyes adapted for night vision
- Thin membrane stretching from front to back limbs (used for gliding)
- Small size — fits in the palm of a hand
- Gliding behaviour between trees or rooflines
Unlike roof-dwelling Brushtails, Sugar Gliders typically stay high in the treetops and rarely enter buildings. Learn more about habitat preferences across possum species. These gliders produce soft chirping or barking sounds, which differ greatly from the louder screeches and growls of Brushtail Possums. For sound comparisons, visit our Possum Sounds and Vocalisations guide.
If you’re unsure whether you’ve seen a Sugar Glider or a smaller species, check for a feather-shaped tail — a clear identifier of the Feathertail Glider.
Where Are Sugar Gliders Found in Sydney?
Sugar gliders are not commonly seen in central Sydney but may be found in bushy outer suburbs or near national parks, including:
- Berowra and Ku-ring-gai Chase
- Hornsby Heights
- Blue Mountains
- Sutherland Shire
They nest in tree hollows and are highly mobile, often gliding across properties when tree cover is sufficient. If a glider enters a home or shed, it’s usually accidental and temporary.
Are Sugar Gliders a Pest?
No, sugar gliders are not considered pests. They do not chew wires, damage insulation, or create foul odours like some possum species. If one ends up indoors, it’s typically because it got lost or chased by a predator.
Unlike brushtails, they do not mark territory with strong smells or loud noises. However, if a sugar glider nests in a roof cavity, it may be a sign that native habitat nearby is being lost or disturbed.
Legal Status & Protections
Sugar gliders are a protected species in New South Wales under the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016. This means:
- You cannot trap, relocate, or keep them without a wildlife license
- Removal can only be performed by licensed wildlife handlers
- They must be released safely and nearby, within their home range
For more, visit Protected Possums in NSW or Possum Removal Laws in NSW.
What to Do if a Sugar Glider Enters Your Home
If you find a sugar glider indoors or in your garage, stay calm and avoid handling it directly. Here’s what to do:
- Close doors to isolate it in a safe room
- Turn off lights and open a window or door so it can glide out naturally
- If it does not leave on its own, call a licensed removal expert
Never attempt to trap or catch a sugar glider — they are fragile and stress easily. Contact Possum Ranger for assistance, or phone 0468 166 733 for urgent support.
Can Sugar Gliders Damage Your Property?
Sugar gliders are generally harmless. Unlike brushtails, they do not scratch wood, chew cables, or create nests in roofs. However, if they take up temporary shelter in a roof cavity or shed, they may leave behind droppings or nesting materials.
In such cases, proper identification and safe removal by a professional are essential to avoid harming the animal or breaking wildlife laws.
Sugar Gliders are active after dusk and have strong night vision. Their reflective eyes make them easy to spot with a torch — read more in our eye shine guide.
Preventing Sugar Gliders from Entering Your Home
While sugar gliders are not destructive, it’s still a good idea to possum-proof your home, especially if you live near bushland. Prevention tips include:
- Installing mesh over roof vents, chimneys, and eaves
- Keeping windows and skylights closed at night
- Trimming trees that hang over the roofline
- Securing sheds and garages overnight
Visit our Possum Proofing & Prevention page for more tips.
Book a Free Wildlife Assessment
Think you’ve seen a sugar glider near your home? Not sure if it’s a possum or something else? Our licensed team can identify and manage any wildlife issues safely and legally.
Book your free wildlife inspection or call 0468 166 733 today. We service all of Sydney and surrounding bushland areas.
