Sick Glider?

Question
Hi Betty,

New to the site, found it while searching for an answer. I have 4 sugar gliders, never mated for about 6 years now. My latest additon which was about 2 years ago is the youngest, Robin. I also have Batman, Batgirl, and Catwoman. Robin has gotten a kind of unkept look to him and I noticed tonight it almost looks like he's wet. He seems to act normal, still eats and drinks but I have noticed he is the only one that I see out during the day. His tail is thin at the base and end. Any thoughts on what this could be or is this normal for some males?

Answer
Don,

Thanks for the question.  It is a very interesting one, but not one that can be easily answered.  Sugar Gliders have a very complicated social structure which we don't fully understand.  Your gliders have gotten along fine for several years, but now one of them seems to be outcast.  It is not usual for one glider to be regularly out of the pouch.  Being the younger male could be an issue, but why now?  I would think the dominant male would have dealt with that a long time ago.  

Whatever is causing the rift, please observe Robin and his pouchmates carefully.  Pay particular attention to how the other male is treating Robin.  Does Robin and one of the females seem to be particularly close?  Is anyone "picking" on Robin?  Do you see any scratches or wounds?  Does he get his fair share of the food?  Does he eat last?  Does he snuggle with the others in the pouch?  

What do your gliders eat?  Do they get plenty of protein and calcium?   

Please let me know the answers to these questions.  Depending on the situation, you may need to separate the two males and have each one have a female companion.  

Let me know,

Betty