Species › Mammals › Southern Flying Squirrel

Southern Flying Squirrel

Glaucomys volans

CommonMammal
Illustration of Southern Flying Squirrel (Glaucomys volans)

The Southern Flying Squirrel does not truly fly but glides using a membrane called the patagium that stretches between its front and hind legs, covering distances of up to 150 feet. It is strictly nocturnal and often overlooked despite being the most abundant tree squirrel in eastern deciduous forests. Flying squirrels are highly social and will huddle in communal winter roosts of a dozen or more individuals.

Habitat
Deciduous and mixed forests with hollow trees
Diet
Nuts, seeds, fungi, lichen, insects, and bird eggs
How common
Common

Best time to see a Southern Flying Squirrel

The best time to see a Southern Flying Squirrel is January–July, when about 60% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 4,212 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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Recent Southern Flying Squirrel sightings near you

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