With the same large innocent eyes, tiny structure, and overload of cuteness, many people now associate sugar gliders with bushbabies. Some may even say that they look the same at first glance.
However, the similarities end there because they have quite a lot of differences. If you wish to own one, there’s a lot to consider. With that being said, let’s now talk about everything you need to know about sugar glider vs bushbaby.
What Is A Sugar Glider?
The sugar glider is a small, nocturnal, and omnivorous possum in the marsupial class. They are native to the cool forests of Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, and Australia. You will usually find them in treetops of Acacia and Eucalyptus trees.
As a tree-dweller, people most commonly compare them to flying squirrels, a type of rodent that can also glide. However, sugar gliders are more related to other marsupial members, such as the kangaroos.
What Is A Bushbaby?
Bushbabies, also known as galagos, are small to medium-sized primates native to Africa. According to National Geographic, there are currently 20 known species of this animal. However, scientists believe that there is still more to discover.
Like sugar gliders, bushbabies are also nocturnal. Their large eyes and collapsible ears help them navigate through the forests in low light. Bushbabies have strong legs and long tails, enabling them to jump at great distances.
Sugar Gliders And Bushbaby: A Comparison
1. Ease Of Management
The first thing you have to know about sugar glider vs bushbaby is that they are both exotic animals. Due to the rising popularity of sugar bears, most of them are now a lot easier to tame than bushbabies.
Unlike sugar gliders, you can keep bushbabies as a single pet. However, keep in mind that the galagos require more effort and patience.
2. Health Problems
The most common medical issue with sugar gliders is an inappropriate diet. It may include overfeeding or not enough nutritional foods. On the other hand, primates like bushbabies are prone to catching and spreading diseases that can affect different species.
In the wild, bushbabies like to urinate on their hands for greater grip. Ensure that your galagos have a diaper on at all times to prevent infection.
3. Legality
Between sugar glider vs bushbaby, owning the latter one is illegal in most US states. Even if you’ve somehow found a place where you can legally own one, getting a bushbaby outside of Africa will be complicated.
Even though having a sugar glider as a pet is still illegal in some states, more places are now more open to accepting them. However, some locations may still require special permits and documents in doing so.
Conclusion
Taking care of either sugar glider vs bushbaby will require extra TLC, effort, and loads of patience. There’s not an animal that’s easier to take care of than the other as they are both challenging.
Always check with your local government and see if it’s legal to have one as a pet. You may also seek an appointment with an exotic veterinarian for more valid information.