The Amazing Flying Squirrels

Have you ever heard of flying squirrels? Despite their nickname, flying squirrels don’t actually fly — they glide.

These unique mammals live in trees and have a skin membrane connecting their front and back legs. By stretching out their legs and launching themselves into the air, they can activate this “natural parachute” and glide through the air for impressive distances. Flying squirrels use their tails to stabilize themselves in the air. Scientists have calculated that flying squirrels can glide more than 260 feet! These tireless little creatures are nocturnal and feed on insects while leaping from tree to tree to avoid predators.

Unexpectedly, researchers found that sure flying squirrels have fluorescent pink fur that glows when exposed to ultraviolet light. The only other mammals with fluorescent fur are opossums. Surprising.

Considering what else scientists may discover about these little-known but incredible creatures is fascinating. Only time will tell!

Northern flying squirrels and southern flying squirrels are the only two native flying squirrel species found in North America.