Are sugar gliders the same thing as flying squirrels?

No, sugar gliders and flying squirrels are not the same thing. While they share the ability to glide through the air, they are different species with distinct characteristics:

Sugar Gliders:

* Marsupials: They are native to Australia, New Guinea, and Indonesia.

* Patagium: They have a membrane called a patagium that stretches from their wrists to their ankles, allowing them to glide.

* Diet: They are omnivores, eating insects, nectar, sap, and small animals.

* Size: They are small, typically 5-8 inches long (excluding tail).

Flying Squirrels:

* Rodents: They are found in North America, Eurasia, and Africa.

* Patagium: They also have a patagium, but it extends from their wrists to their ankles.

* Diet: They are herbivores, eating nuts, seeds, and fungi.

* Size: They are larger than sugar gliders, ranging from 5-18 inches long (excluding tail).

Here's a simple way to remember the difference:

* Sugar Gliders: Think "sugar" - they are sweet, small, and from Australia.

* Flying Squirrels: Think "squirrel" - they are like regular squirrels but with gliding abilities.