Sugar Gliders
I have
heard many different stories, but are Sugar Gliders illegal in
California? I have heard conflicting stories and I don't know who to
believe. One person lives in California and owns a Sugar Gliders and says
they're legal. Another says they aren't legal...do you know? If
they are, can you get a permit? How much would it cost? I hope you can
answer my questions. Thank you for your time!
Flying squirrels are rodents from North and South America, and sugar gliders are marsupials from Australia, Indonesia, New Zealand and New Guinea. They do not fly, but have the ability to glide from trees. They have membranes of skin between their front and rear legs which form a parachute when they jump from trees. They have large eyes and soft fur, making them appealing to many people. As pets, they are similar to squirrels in behavior, disposition and diet, but are unique in many ways.
Like the ferret and the gerbil, they are illegal to have in captivity in the State of California without a special permit. Non-native animal permits are issued by the California Department of Fish and Game for specific reasons, such as research, education and zoological displays. Sugar Gliders have the potential to out compete the local species of squirrels if introduced into the wild in California. Therefore, the Department of Fish and Game is very careful on allowing these non-native species into the state.
Many Sugar Gliders are kept in California illegally. If discovered, owners of illegal pets face fines, and loose their animals.
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