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
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Acorns
- Tree Fungi
- Beetles
Predators
- Barred Owls
- Domestic Cats
- Black Rat Snakes
ThreatsHabitat fragmentation, loss of mature nesting trees, and predation by domestic cats
HabitatsDeciduous and mixed forests with mature, cavity-producing trees
Life span3 to 5 years in the wild, up to 10 years in captivity
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilySciuridae
- SpeciesGlaucomys volans
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Capable of a sharp defensive bite if handled; observe without attempting to touch.
- Why it is dangerous
- Equipped with sharp incisors designed for cracking hard nuts, which can deliver a painful bite if the animal is handled or cornered.
- How to recognize a risky encounter
- Look for a small, mouse-sized squirrel with oversized dark eyes, a flat tail, and loose folds of skin along its flanks.
- What to do
- Never attempt to catch or hold a wild squirrel; use a red-light flashlight to watch them glide at night.
Responsible observation
- 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.
Predator U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Headquarters / Public domain · cc0
Habitat Partner Close Relative
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