16 Incredible Facts about Flying Squirrels

First published 18th March 2020 Robin James

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Can a squirrel really fly through the air like a bird, grab a nut and land with the grace of an eagle? You’re about to find out with these 16 super interesting facts about flying squirrels…

Their big, cute eyes are actually so they can see in the dark.
They’ve been seen gliding for 300 ft or more.
As well as making breathtaking 18 degree turns with ease.
90% of them make their homes in Asia.
Flying Squirrels only measure 12 inches from nose to tail.
And weigh as little as 4 ounces.
Their large, flat tails make the perfect midair rudders so they can change direction with ease.
They’ve evolved thick paws which help them when it’s time to hit the brakes and land.

They’re nocturnal, which explains why you don’t see them flying when you’re out walking the dog.
Flying squirrels are omnivores who will eat anything from eggs and berries to nuts and small birds.
They’re the only squirrel to create a hole in the nuts they eat — all other squirrels choose to break them open instead.
Whilst they don’t hibernate, they do fly less in the winter to preserve energy.
Scientists estimate they can gather up to 15,000 nuts a season.
They breed fast with mating occurring in the spring and gestation taking less than 6 weeks.
Females will give birth to anywhere from 2 to 7 newborns in one go.
They will average 4 years in the wild but have lived for up to 15 years in captivity.