Species · GBIF taxon 2437338
Southern Flying Squirrel
Glaucomys volansAlso known as Assapan, Eastern Flying Squirrel
These tiny, nocturnal rodents navigate the forest canopy by launching from high branches and extending a specialized membrane of skin to glide effortlessly through the air. They nest socially in tree cavities, often huddling in large groups during winter to conserve body heat. Despite their abundance in eastern forests, their strictly night-active habits mean they are rarely seen by casual observers.
NocturnalGlidingArboreal
- diet
- Omnivorous, feeding on acorns, hickory nuts, fungi, lichens, insects, and bird eggs
- family
- Sciuridae
- threats
- Habitat fragmentation, loss of mature nesting trees, and predation by domestic cats
- life Span
- 3 to 5 years in the wild, up to 10 years in captivity
LC
Capable of a sharp defensive bite if handled; observe without attempting to touch.
Equipped with sharp incisors designed for cracking hard nuts, which can deliver a painful bite if the animal is handled or cornered.
Never attempt to catch or hold a wild squirrel; use a red-light flashlight to watch them glide at night.- Night Watching: Use a flashlight with a red filter to spot them visiting backyard bird feeders after dark without startling them.
- Listen Closely: Listen for high-pitched, bird-like chirps coming from the canopy just after twilight.
- Nest Boxes: Install specialized nesting boxes in mature hardwood trees to encourage local families to move in.