Recently, no fewer than nine sugar gliders were brought to our rescue centre in Almere. The animals were living under the stairwell of a family home in the Netherlands.
Purchased on Marktplaats
Three years ago, the family purchased two sugar gliders after seeing an advertisement on the online platform Marktplaats, where the animals were being offered for sale. Subsequently, new animals were born, and eventually, the group grew to nine sugar gliders. They then decided to contact AAP.
Video: nine sugar gliders taken to AAP
Not a suitable pet
Sugar gliders, also known as flying squirrels because they can hover for short distances, look sweet and cute. However, they are anything but suitable pets. They mark their territory with an extremely pungent odour. They are also only active at night.
These animals need a lot of space to be able to hover. They also require specific care, which many owners are unable to provide, even if they have the necessary knowledge.
Suger gliders are not on the Dutch Positive List, which means that these animals may no longer be breeded with. They are only allowed if the animal is born before 1 July 2024. This prevents a great deal of animal suffering.
