Opportunistic vertebrate predation by the Squirrel Glider Petaurus Norfolcensis

The Squirrel Glider Petaurus norfolcensis is classified as an exudivore/insectivore feeder, with staple dietary items including insects, insect exudates and plant exudates. During a study of the foraging ecology of the species in northern Victoria, an adult female glider was observed to harass a nesting Common Bronzewing Phaps chalcoptera, ultimately removing the bird before consuming eggs within the nest. A description of this observation is provided and vertebrate predation by the Squirrel Glider is discussed in relation to other published accounts. Vertebrate predation by the Squirrel Glider is considered infrequent and opportunistic, but may provide an additional protein and energy source for lactating females.