It was as little as a nail when she discovered it on the ground while walking through the forest.

Meet Boop, the newest resident of Australia Zoo Wildlife Warriors, whose adorable charm has captured the hearts of many. This tiny feathertail glider was discovered weighing less than one gram after venturing out of her mother’s pouch, sparking awe and admiration from the dedicated team at the sanctuary.

Feathertail gliders, named for their distinctive flat tail covered in fringed hair, boast unique features that set them apart in the animal kingdom. Their tail, resembling a bird’s feather, serves as a steering mechanism as they glide through the trees, showcasing their remarkable agility and grace.

Despite their small size, adult feathertail gliders possess incredible survival adaptations. They enter a state of torpor to conserve energy during periods of food scarcity or cold temperatures, a remarkable strategy observed in these tiny mammals.

These skilled gliders primarily feed on nectar, pollen, and insects while residing in trees, using their gliding membrane to navigate the treetops and avoid ground-dwelling predators. Their feet, equipped with large pads and serrated grooves, allow them to climb almost any surface with ease, showcasing their remarkable agility and versatility.

Feathertail gliders construct nests using a variety of materials, from abandoned bird nests to banana sacks, creating cozy spherical structures for shelter and reproduction. They live in communal groups in northern Australia, while reproducing year-round, and in southern regions, they follow a seasonal breeding pattern.

Boop’s enchanting presence serves as a reminder of the incredible diversity and beauty of the animal kingdom. As we celebrate her cuteness and uniqueness, we also reaffirm our commitment to protect and preserve the natural habitats of these remarkable creatures for generations to come.