Six sugar glider possums 'cruelly' abandoned outside Lidl supermarket in West Lothian

Six tiny possums have been rescued after being “cruelly” abandoned outside a Lidl supermarket in West Lothian.

The sugar gliders, small, nocturnal animals native to Australia, were discarded in a box earlier this month, leaving them vulnerable and exposed to the elements.

Sugar gliders: Discarded in box outside supermarket Five Sisters Zoo

Five Sisters Zoo sprang into action after being alerted to the “shocking” animal abandonment by Police Scotland and the Scottish SPCA.

Now in the care of Five Sisters, the sugar gliders, who have yet to be named, are undergoing a 30-day quarantine period.

The animals were rescued by Five Sisters Zoo. Five Sisters Zoo

A dedicated animal care team is closely assessing their health and behaviour to ensure they receive the attention and support they need to recover.

The zoo will provide regular updates on the gliders’ progress via social media, offering the public a glimpse into their rehabilitation journey.

The sugar gliders are are undergoing a 30-day quarantine period.

This rescue is part of Five Sisters’ longstanding commitment to rescuing and rehabilitating animals in need, the zoo said.

Over the years, the zoo has provided a forever home to many rescued animals, including bears and lions saved from travelling circuses, roadside restaurants, and even warzones.

A spokesperson for Five Sisters Zoo said: “While the zoo cannot accommodate every animal in need, we remain committed to our rescue efforts and are always eager to help whenever possible.”