There are two species of flying squirrels in Minnesota, the southern flying squirrel (Glaucomys volans), and the northern flying squirrel (Glaucomys sabrinus). They are mainly nocturnal (active at night), and are the only mammals that can intentionally maneuver and glide, but they can not fly (like a bat does).

Identification

General description: The southern flying squirrel is about the size of a chipmunk, and the northern flying squirrel is slightly larger. Both are small, grayish mammals with eyes that are disproportionately large.

Length: The southern sup-species is about nine inches long, while the northern sub-species measures almost 11 inches, including the wide flattened tail which is nearly half as long as the flying squirrel.

Weight: The southern and northern flying squirrels weigh two and three ounces, respectively.

Color: The upper parts are gray-brown, whereas all the lower parts including the tail are white.

Reproduction

Females of both species mate in early spring, and about five weeks later, give birth to three to five tiny, blind young. Southern flying squirrels may have two litters in summer, but this rarely occurs in northern flying squirrel females.

Food

Flying squirrels eat a variety of fruits and nuts, insects, small birds, and meat scraps. Flying squirrels are frequent visitors at bird feeders, and some people have lights at the feeders so they can watch the flying squirrel's antics at night.

Predators

Small hawks and owls, foxes, weasels, and in northern Minnesota, marten.

Habitat and range

Southern flying squirrels are found mainly in southern Minnesota hardwood forests, while the northern sub-species occurs in northern Minnesota forests. Nearly all flying squirrels nest in cavities in older trees, such as woodpecker holes.

Population and management

Flying squirrels, though unprotected in Minnesota, have no meat or fur value and thus are not hunted or trapped. Some management occurs when old trees or "snags" with cavities are left in logging operations.

Fun facts

Though seldom seen, flying squirrels are interesting animals. With their loose fold of skin (called a patagium) stretched between all four legs, they are able to glide considerable distances under full control. Many people who think they see birds flying across highways at night actually are seeing flying squirrels. Flying squirrels do not hibernate, but slow their body activity in winter and sometimes nest in groups to stay warm.