Color: Depending on the species, flying squirrels range in color from white to gray to brown with a pale belly
Legs: 4
Shape: Flying squirrels have short, thick fur and a bushy tail.
Size: Flying squirrels range in size depending on the species, but usually the head and body is about 5 ½” to 6 3/8” (14 cm – 16.2 cm) and tail is 3 ½” to 4 ½ ” (8.9 cm – 11.4 cm)
Region: Northern flying squirrels are found in eastern Alaska; throughout northern United States including California, Washington, Oregon, North Dakota, South Dakota, Idaho, Montana, Utah and Wyoming; and in eastern United States including Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, New England and New York. Southern flying squirrels are found throughout the eastern Unites States and eastern Canada, west to Alaska, and southward through California.
Contrary to their common name, these small tree squirrels actually glide instead of fly. They stretch out their legs, spreading the fold of skin between the front and hind legs, to form a kind of parachute that lets them glide from branch to branch.
Northern and southern flying squirrels are the smallest of the tree squirrels and the only nocturnal species. They are also known to be the most carnivorous of the group, feeding primarily on nuts and seeds, but also on insects and bird eggs.
These squirrels feed on nuts, acorns, seeds, berries, some insects and bird eggs. In preparation for the colder months, some of the food is stored in the nest chamber, while the rest is hoarded in tree crotches.
Both northern and southern flying squirrels become pests only when they take up residence in the roofs and attics of buildings, where they can cause a noticeable odor and damage with their urine. The species is of very minor medical concern.
Northern and southern flying squirrels inhabit woodlots and forests of dense or mixed conifer and deciduous trees. These species favor dead trees with numerous woodpecker holes for nesting, especially in stumps and those near the top. They will also use the attics of warehouses and other buildings as shelter and den in larger groups during the winter months.
Some species of flying squirrel are endangered, and protected under the Game and Wildlife Code. If you find feces, hear sounds of scurrying in the walls or observe other signs of an infestation, contact a pest professional to inspect and treat any potential pest problem.
Flying squirrels are mostly nocturnal, unlike most other squirrel species. They emerge in the evening to forage and feed.
These squirrels are omnivorous. They will eat nuts and seeds but also insects and bird eggs.
Deforestation throughout the United States has reduced the natural habitat of these squirrels. The removal of trees has limited their ability to travel and find shelter.