Flying squirrels, oftenActive at night and masters of aerial maneuvers, these creatures are more accurately described as gliding squirrels. Native to North America, the northern flying squirrel (Glaucomys sabrinus) and the southern flying squirrel (Glaucomys volans) share a unique adaptation: a gliding membrane that allows them to travel through the forest canopy without touching the ground. But just how far can these furry gliders actually glide?
These fascinating mammals, distinguished by their gray-brown fur – with subtle differences in belly color to differentiate the northern and southern species – are not capable of true powered flight like birds or bats. Instead, they utilize a remarkable membrane called a patagium, stretching between their wrists and ankles. When a flying squirrel leaps from an elevated branch, this membrane expands, transforming the squirrel into a living kite. By adjusting their limbs, they expertly steer their glide, using their tail as a brake upon arrival. These skillful navigators can cover impressive distances in a single glide.
So, getting to the core question: How Far Can A Flying Squirrel Glide? Remarkably, a flying squirrel can glide distances of more than 150 feet (45 meters) in a single leap. This impressive range allows them to efficiently navigate their forest habitat, moving between trees to forage for food or escape predators without the need to descend to the ground. The gliding distance can vary depending on several factors, including the height from which they launch, the angle of their glide, and even wind conditions.
These arboreal rodents inhabit a range across eastern North America for the southern flying squirrel, and more patchily across the Northeast, West Coast, and parts of the Rocky Mountains for the northern flying squirrel. They make their homes in diverse forest types, from deciduous to coniferous woodlands, seeking shelter in tree cavities, woodpecker holes, and even abandoned nests. Their gliding prowess isn’t just for travel; it’s a crucial survival tactic. Upon landing, a flying squirrel will quickly dart to the opposite side of the tree trunk, evading any predators like owls, hawks, or snakes that might be in pursuit.
Flying squirrels are omnivorous, with a diet that includes nuts, seeds, fruits, fungi, and insects. Interestingly, southern flying squirrels are noted for a more carnivorous tendency, supplementing their diet with eggs, small birds, and even carrion. With northern flying squirrels breeding once a year and southern squirrels twice, these animals typically live around 5 years in the wild, though they can reach up to 10 years in captivity. While generally common, some subspecies of the northern flying squirrel are endangered due to habitat loss, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts.
Inspired by the flying squirrel’s natural gliding ability, humans have developed wingsuits, mimicking the patagium to allow for controlled gliding in activities like base jumping and skydiving. This serves as a testament to the evolutionary ingenuity of these small, nocturnal gliders and their mastery of navigating the forest canopy, one impressive glide at a time.
Sources:
Animal Diversity Web, University of Michigan Museum of Zoology
Chattanooga Arboretum & Nature Center
Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection
NatureServe Explorer
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
Wildscreen Arkive
