In the entire U.S. only 4 states consider the ownership of Sugar Gliders Illegal: Hawaii, Alaska, Pennsylvania and California. Every other state allows them as pets and companions. Moreover, many territories in Canada, including neighboring British Columbia, also allow sugar gliders to be kept as pets.

 Although Sugar Gliders are not native to the United States, their classification as "exotic" should not be confused with dangerous. In fact, according to USDA guidelines, they are not technically exotic pets. A few facts about sugar gliders:

• An adult Sugar Glider weighs 4-6 ounces.
• Sugar gliders are very clean animals that, like cats, groom themselves regularly.
• Sugar Gliders bond to their owners.
• Bonded sugar gliders become attached to their owners and can often be trusted to ride on a shoulder or in a jacket pocket. 
• Sugar gliders typically require a temperature of 65-90 degrees. 
• Sugar gliders are marsupials, not rodents, so they do not carry any diseases known to be transmittable to humans or other animals.
• Sugar gliders are nocturnal and feed on small vertebrates and the sap of certain species of eucalyptus, acacia and gum trees. 
• Given their specialized diets and environmental needs, the likelihood of their survival in the Alaska wild is nearly impossible. 

Legalize the ownership of Sugar Gliders in Alaska. Allow Alaskan residents the opportunity to experience the special bond an individual can create with these wonderful animals.