Adelaide Zoo has welcomed a miniature marsupial to the wild family!
At four and a half months old, Geronimo the Squirrel Glider joey weighs just 195 grams, but isn’t far off being fully grown!
The pint-sized possum is destined to become an important ambassador for his species and support Zoos SA’s work as a conservation charity saving species from extinction.
Visitors to the zoo are able to get up close with the gorgeous glider, who will act as a powerful tool to educate visitors about native animals during some of our animal presentations.
Nature Theatre Presenter Brett Haby said Geronimo had already captured the hearts of keepers and visitors alike.
“Squirrel Gliders are amazing creatures. Although small in stature, weighing between 190 and 300g, this incredible possum has a skin membrane that stretches between its front and hind legs, allowing it to glide up 50 metres through the air from tree to tree,” Brett said.
“This little guy has a bright future ahead of them and will no doubt help us get our visitors excited a
bout nature and conservation.
“Everyone has a role to play to look after our native wildlife. Things like keeping dogs and cats in at night, planting native plant species in your backyard and providing nest boxes in trees are all steps you can take in your own home to help the native wildlife in your area.”
Found sparsely across the east coast of Australia and classified as vulnerable in New South Wales, habitat loss as well as predation by introduced species like foxes, cats and dogs, is putting pressure on wild Squirrel Glider populations.
As a conservation charity, we are helping to secure the future of many native Australian species through our regional breeding programs and habitat restoration projects.
