5 Shocking Facts About Flying Squirrels

Bats are the only mammals that fly, but they are not the only mammals you might see soaring through the night sky. Flying squirrels, despite the name, do not fly; they glide. The astounding feat is possible because of a membrane that stretches from the animal's front to back limbs. The membrane, or patagium, is a parachute-like substance that allows the squirrel to catch and ride the wind for distances up to 300 feet. As fascinating as the animals are, you may still want to call squirrel removal services if you notice them gliding around your property.

Understanding the Truth About Flying Squirrels

As fascinating as gliding through the air is for a mammal, it is not the only exciting thing about the squirrel species. In fact, it is not even the most unique attribute of the animal. Flying squirrels have many unique characteristics, despite appearing to act and resemble most ordinary squirrels. It might surprise homeowners to learn there are at least five things that make this animal intriguing.

1. They Don't Hibernate

While flying squirrels can inhabit some of the coldest regions in North America and beyond, they do not hibernate. During the winter, they become less active but still leave their nests and forage for food; however, like other squirrel species, they stockpile food for the winter to supplement feedings. One unique trait of the flying squirrel is it will often share a nest with family members in the winter to keep warm, huddling together to share body heat. Another fascinating characteristic of the species is its acceptance of other wildlife in its nests during the winter. The species may share a nest with bats or even screech owls to keep warm.

2. They Commonly Nest in Attics

People continue to invade and take away forests. The intrusion means natural habitats for flying squirrels are diminishing. As more land gets taken away, the squirrels must adapt. Many adapt by invading manufactured structures; home attics are a favorite nesting place. While flying squirrels may not intentionally invade human homes, possibly mistaking them for trees and attics for canopies, they are becoming a problem for homeowners. Squirrels in a house can cause significant damage and costs.

3. They Make Excellent Mothers

According to rodent control in Madison, flying squirrels come into the world vulnerable. They are born blind, deaf, and hairless. The animal's ears do not open for about one week; its eyes open about two weeks later. When born and through their first several months, babies depend on their mothers for survival. Flying squirrel mothers not only protect and nurture their young for at least four months until they become independent, but they also maintain several nest sites. It is common for a female flying squirrel to maintain multiple nests to ensure a safe place to retreat in case of predators.

4. They Don't Have Wings

While the patagia may resemble wings, the membranes are not. The membranes are more like skin flaps. The squirrels also have cartilage spurs that act like an extra finger, providing additional support to the patagia to ensure it catches the air.

5. They Can Glow

Flying squirrels glow — a discovery that happened only recently and almost entirely by accident. A researcher returning from a nighttime hike shone an ultraviolet light on a flying squirrel and noticed it glowed pink. Upon further study, a research team led by Allison Kohler found that all American flying squirrels glow fluorescently. Researchers are not sure why the glowing occurs or how it is relevant, but it is interesting.

Hiring Wildlife Control Services for Prevention and Removal

As impressive as flying squirrels are, squirrel removal near me is essential if the animals become too comfortable around your home. Like other rodents, the animals can become destructive. Skedaddle technicians understand how to create a humane removal for several species of squirrels. Our removal process protects your family, your home, and all the wildlife inside during the process. Once the removal has been completed, technicians will begin the cleaning and exclusion processes. These services get rid of any traces of a squirrel infestation and prevent their ability to return for years to come. Contact Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control to schedule a property assessment.