Yellow-bellied Glider (Wet Tropics)

Petaurus australis Wet Tropics subspecies

Australia's Threatened Species Category

Endangered

Listed since: 9/07/2020

IUCN's Threatened Species Category

Near Threatened

Listed since: 9/03/2014

Population trend: Decreasing

Other names: Fluffy Glider

Priority Species? No

The Australian government's Threatened Species Action Plan 2022-2032 selected over 100 priority species derive from consultation with threatened species experts and the wider community. While all species are important, focusing on a limited number of species can help target effort and resources so that outcomes can be achieved, measured and shared.

Description

The Yellow-bellied Glider (Wet Tropics) is a rabbit-sized gliding marsupial with grey-brown fur and a distinctive off-white to yellow-orange belly. This subspecies occurs in tall open eucalypt forest in the Atherton region, Queensland. Sap from Eucalyptus resinifera is the most important dietary item with nectar and pollen a secondary component.

Threats

Due to the high diet specialisation of the Yellow-bellied Glider (Wet Tropics) creates their vulnerability to habitat destruction or alteration, which is their main threat.