A baby glider in Australia survived a dangerous mix-up after clinging to the back of a cat, likely mistaking the much larger animal for its mother.
Here's what to know
Wildlife Warriors Worldwide shared a photo of this adorably tiny glider on Instagram, writing in the caption: "Fleetfoot, a young feather-tailed glider, found her way to the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital after an unexpected (and rather risky!) ride on a cat's back."
Wildlife Warriors Worldwide added that "The poor little thing must have gripped on thinking it was her mother, before being noticed and rushed to us!"
She was brought to the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital after being seen, then later transferred into specialized wildlife care.
Fleetfoot drew heartwarming reactions in the comments. One commenter wrote, "Awww she's so precious." Another wrote, "So glad she was rescued and came to you guys. Can't wait for the day she's able to return to the wild."
More background
Cats are domestic animals, and encounters like this can happen in spaces shaped by people — homes, yards, roads, and fragmented habitat where wildlife and pets can cross paths.
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Once it became clear Fleetfoot was in trouble, she was rescued and placed with someone able to care for her properly.
"Now safe and in the hands of a specialised wildlife carer, she's receiving the expert care and attention she needs while she grows strong enough to return to life in the wild," the organization stated.
Where can I learn more?
Fleetfoot's rescue is one example of how quickly a yard or neighborhood can become dangerous for wild animals. The articles below cover close calls between cats and wildlife, rare feline sightings, and rescue work for vulnerable animals.
• A pet owner watched a bobcat approach the backyard as a house cat lingered nearby.
• At a wildlife recovery center, injured young swans stayed close after a brutal encounter.
• In Sebastopol, homeowners spotted a mountain lion pacing through a backyard at night.
• In West Bengal, cameras captured Earth's tiniest wild cat in an extremely rare sighting.
• The RSPCA warned that garden netting can trap endangered snakes and other wildlife.
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