Facts about Flying Squirrels

1. 08

   Unlike most squirrels, flying squirrels are almost entirely nocturnal, relying on their large eyes and sensitive whiskers to navigate forests after dark.

   Flying SquirrelsJun 8sharebehaviornocturnalecology
2. 07

   Their tail acts as a rudder and stabilizer during glides, comprising approximately 40 percent of a flying squirrel's total body length to enhance aerial maneuverability.

   Flying SquirrelsMay 14shareanatomybiomechanicsmeasurement
3. 06

   Flying squirrels possess specialized cheek pouches that can expand to hold up to 30 grams of seeds and nuts for transport and storage during winter months.

   Flying SquirrelsMay 14sharebiologyadaptationbehavior
4. 05

   Bones in flying squirrel skeletons are notably thinner and lighter than those of terrestrial squirrels, reducing overall body weight to as little as 2-5 ounces for enhanced gliding efficiency.

   Flying SquirrelsMay 14shareanatomyadaptationmeasurement
5. 04

   Southern flying squirrels can make up to 10 nesting sites called dreys, switching between them every few days to avoid parasite accumulation.

   Flying SquirrelsMay 14sharebehaviorbiologyhabitat
6. 03

   A flying squirrel's large eyes occupy roughly 20 percent of its skull, enabling superior night vision for nocturnal gliding and foraging in low-light forest environments.

   Flying SquirrelsMay 14sharebiologyanatomyadaptation
7. 02

   Northern flying squirrels produce ultrasonic vocalizations at frequencies between 22 and 100 kilohertz, inaudible to human ears but used for communication with their young.

   Flying SquirrelsMay 14sharebiologybehaviorsound
8. 01

   Gliding membranes stretched between the limbs of flying squirrels can span up to 12 inches, allowing them to traverse distances of 150 feet between trees.

   Flying SquirrelsMay 13sharebiologymeasurementanatomy