Discover the Fascinating World of Flying Squirrels: A Complete Guide

When we think of creatures that can soar through the sky, birds usually come to mind. However, there are some animals that defy this expectation and break all the rules. One such remarkable creature is the common flying squirrel. In this article, we will delve into the captivating world of flying squirrels, providing a detailed description, interesting facts, and even a glimpse of the elusive Siberian flying squirrel.

What Does a Common Flying Squirrel Look Like?

The common flying squirrel, a member of the rodent order, squirrel family, and Eurasian flying squirrel genus, shares some similarities with its non-flying squirrel counterparts. However, it possesses unique characteristics that set it apart.

With a compact body ranging from 12 to 23 cm in length, the common flying squirrel sports a fluffy tail measuring 10-14 cm. Its small oval-shaped head features prominent ears and large black eyes outlined in black, giving them an even more striking appearance.

Covered in a thick and dense fur coat, the flying squirrel's color palette includes shades of gray, graphite, silver, and ash, with a lighter belly often displaying a light gray or almost white hue.

How Does a Flying Squirrel Fly?

Now, let's explore the most intriguing aspect of flying squirrels: their ability to glide through the air. Although they lack wings, flying squirrels possess a remarkable adaptation known as a flying membrane.

This fold of skin between their front and back legs acts as a wing suit, enabling them to glide over considerable distances. By spreading their paws wide and stretching their membrane, flying squirrels can jump from trees and gracefully navigate through the air.

While their gliding trajectory is primarily downward, they can adjust their flight path by catching air currents or utilizing air resistance. Their lush tails serve as stabilizers, allowing them to maneuver with ease.

Habitat and Behavior of Flying Squirrels

Flying squirrels are primarily nocturnal creatures, with heightened activity during twilight hours. They seek refuge in natural hollows or woodpecker-made cavities, occasionally occupying bird nests or artificial birdhouses.

These sociable animals can coexist peacefully in nests, except for mothers with cubs who prefer isolation. Their nests, lined with soft materials like moss or leaves, are typically located at least 3 meters above the ground. 

During winter, flying squirrels reduce their activity but do not hibernate. Instead, they take shelter in hollows and rely on stored food supplies.

Diet and Natural Habitat

While plant-based foods form the bulk of a flying squirrel's diet, they are not strictly vegetarian. These agile creatures consume tree buds, young shoots, nuts, mushrooms, berries, and their favorite delicacy, birch and alder catkins.

Additionally, they occasionally indulge in animal-based food, such as insects, larvae, and even raiding bird nests for eggs and small chicks. Flying squirrels thrive in forested areas, particularly deciduous or mixed forests, with a preference for trees like alder, birch, larch, and aspen, which provide abundant fruits and flowers.

Reproduction and Conservation

Flying squirrels reproduce once a year, with the breeding season occurring in spring. After a short pregnancy of 4-5 weeks, females give birth to 2 to 4 tiny, blind, and hairless baby squirrels. 

These adorable offspring gradually develop their sight and start leaving the nest at around 1 month old. By 1.5 months, they begin their first jumps and flights, becoming independent at 2 months. In the wild, the average lifespan of a common flying squirrel is around 5 years, although they can live up to 13 years in captivity. 

While the common flying squirrel is listed in the Red Book as a species of least concern, it faces threats from habitat destruction caused by human activities, particularly deforestation.

Flying squirrels are captivating creatures that defy expectations with their ability to glide through the air. Their unique adaptations, behavior, and habitat make them a fascinating subject of study. By understanding and appreciating these remarkable animals, we can contribute to their conservation and ensure their continued presence in our natural world.

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5 Interesting facts about Flying squirrels.

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1. Masters of the Air: Flying squirrels are true acrobats of the sky. With their unique adaptation of a stretchy membrane called a patagium, they can effortlessly glide through the air for impressive distances. These skilled gliders can soar up to 90 meters (295 feet) in a single glide, making them the aerial masters of the animal kingdom.

2. Nighttime Wonders: Flying squirrels are creatures of the night. Their large, round eyes are perfectly designed for low-light conditions, allowing them to navigate through the darkness with ease. These nocturnal acrobats have excellent night vision, enabling them to find food and avoid predators under the cover of darkness.

3.Social Butterflies: Unlike their solitary squirrel relatives, flying squirrels are quite social creatures. They often live in small groups or colonies, sharing nests and engaging in social interactions. Through a combination of vocalizations, scent marking, and body language, they communicate and bond with their fellow flying squirrels.

4.Stealthy Hunters: While their diet primarily consists of plant-based foods like nuts, seeds, and fruits, flying squirrels are opportunistic predators. They have been known to exhibit stealthy hunting skills, catching insects, raiding bird nests for eggs, and even preying on small birds or mammals. Their silent gliding abilities help them surprise their unsuspecting prey.

5.Diverse Flying Squirrel Family: The world of flying squirrels is incredibly diverse, with over 50 different species found across the globe. From North America and Europe to Asia, each species has its own unique characteristics and adaptations. This diversity showcases the remarkable variety and adaptability of these captivating creatures.