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Flying squirrels are small, fast, and built for life in the trees. They can cause real trouble when they slip into homes or businesses, resulting in property damage and health concerns.

Flying squirrel characteristics

When people picture a flying squirrel, they often imagine a lively little animal gliding between trees. That smooth gliding motion comes from a thin membrane along the sides of its body. These squirrels are active, alert, and able to slip through tight spaces, including small gaps around roofs or eaves.

flying squirrel on a rough surface

Interesting flying squirrel facts

Flying squirrels have unique adaptations that set them apart from other tree-dwelling rodents. 

  • 8–11.5 inches long, plus a bushy 3–4-inch tail.
  • The color varies from gray to reddish-brown, depending on the species.
  • Have light and dark stripes across the sides of their face, back, and tail.
  • Podgy cheeks for carrying food.

Habitat, diet, life cycle, and behaviors

Flying squirrels are active, tree-dwelling animals that glide from branch to branch. Their needs are simple: safe shelter, steady food, and room to move, but these needs often bring them close to homes and buildings. Discovering how they live makes it easier to identify early signs of activity.

Flying squirrels spend most of their time in the trees. They build nests in tree cavities, old woodpecker holes, or other sheltered spaces high above the ground. Many come out at night to search for food, even though they are not considered nocturnal. When natural shelter is limited, they may look for openings in roofs, attics, or eaves, which is when homeowners start to notice signs of activity.

A flying squirrel’s diet includes nuts, seeds, fruits, insects, and sometimes bird eggs when other food is hard to find. They gather and store food in small piles, often carrying items in their cheeks. This behavior helps them prepare for colder months when food is limited.

Flying squirrels have a seasonal life cycle that follows breeding periods, food availability, and nesting habits throughout the year.

  • They start to mate in early spring.
  • A female produces a litter of two to eight young.
  • Stay with their parents for two months, then leave to forage on their own.
  • After five months, the young will mature to adult size.
  • They lie dormant during winter.
  • Live for two to three years in the wild.

A typical flying squirrel's lifespan can vary based on weather, food, and nearby predators.

These squirrels are social and often gather in small groups, especially during cold weather. Their signature gliding behavior helps them travel long distances between trees while avoiding predators. They are quick, curious, and able to squeeze through small gaps, which is why they can enter homes unnoticed.

Are flying squirrels dangerous?

Flying squirrels are not aggressive, but they can still cause problems if they enter your home. They may chew on wiring or insulation, which can lead to damage over time. Like any wild animal, they may bite or scratch if handled, so it’s best to give them space. They can also leave droppings or bring in nesting material that needs to be cleaned safely.  If you suspect activity, a trained technician should inspect the area and guide the next steps.

flying squirrel on side of a property at night

How to get rid of flying squirrels

Removing flying squirrels on your own can be difficult because they move quickly and can hide in small spaces. A proper solution begins with a thorough inspection to determine how they entered and what attracted them. From there, a technician can help manage the issue and guide you through the steps to keep your home protected.

Our professional wildlife control team handles these situations with care for you and the animals.

Flying squirrel prevention tips

You can reduce the chance of flying squirrels entering by sealing gaps around roofs, vents, and eaves. Keep tree branches trimmed back from the house, since they often use branches as pathways. Store food and trash securely, and keep attics and storage areas free of clutter

Pest control solutions for flying squirrels

Flying squirrels can enter homes through small openings. Once inside, they may chew on insulation, wood, or wiring. Our technicians inspect the entry points, identify areas that attract them, and help you protect your home from further infestation.

Because they are wildlife, trying to remove them yourself can lead to harm or stress for both you and the animal. Our residential pest management services can handle these situations safely and responsibly.

Pest control for your business

Businesses with tree cover or older roofs may see more activity from flying squirrels. We inspect your building, find entry points, and recommend steps that help prevent future issues. If you require more comprehensive service, our commercial pest protection services offer ongoing assistance for a wide range of pests, including wildlife that may attempt to use your facility as a shelter.

Managing flying squirrels

Flying squirrels can be hard to detect and even harder to manage once they nest in attics or wall spaces. If you suspect flying squirrel activity on your property, Presto-X can help. Our technicians are trained to assess the situation and recommend responsible solutions that help protect your property while respecting wildlife regulations.

Frequently asked questions

Flying squirrels do not hunt mice, but they may feed on small animal remains when other food is limited. If you think rodents are active in your home, our residential pest removal services can help address that issue.

They may look friendly, but they are still wild animals. They tend to avoid people and may bite or scratch if handled roughly. Give them space and let a trained technician manage the situation if they get inside.

Flying squirrels are quick learners. They remember food sources, move easily between trees, and work together to stay warm in cold months. Their problem-solving skills help them survive in the wild.

 

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