Northern Flying Squirrel

Category:

Actual Size: 10-14”, including tail

Characteristics: Gray-brown fur, gray-colored belly, and large dark eyes.

Habitat: Nests in natural cavities and woodpecker holes. Will enter homes in late fall, occupying attics, external walls, and between floors, using insulation as nesting material.

Habits:

  • Will sometimes enter homes in late fall when temperatures drop.
  • Social, nocturnal creatures that feed on nuts and fruit from trees.
  • Unlike their name, northern flying squirrels do not actually fly long distances, but glide.

Northern Flying Squirrels in Eastern Tennessee

The northern flying squirrel is slightly smaller than the southern flying squirrel but is otherwise very similar in behavior. Their gliding is graceful, but these squirrels can be clumsy walkers. They change nests very often and are very social creatures that tend to congregate together. Just like other flying squirrels, the northern flying squirrel is nocturnal. They feed on a lot of plant material and make nests in trees.

Northern Flying Squirrel Habitat

Northern flying squirrels are mostly found in coniferous forests across North America. They tend to nest in holes in trees and dead trees. However, they also will build nests from leaves and are even known to nest underground unlike the southern flying squirrel. They tend to share nests in the wintertime but otherwise move frequently from one nest to another.

Northern Flying Squirrel Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

As mentioned earlier, the northern flying squirrel glides from atop trees using the patagium on their bodies. They can maneuver with excellent efficiency and use a parachute-like effect when landing. The main danger with flying squirrels is when they make their way onto your property. They have a very small population, and it is important to never attempt to remove flying squirrels on your own. If you are having an issue with northern flying squirrels, it is best to consult a professional wildlife control company for removal.