Flying Squirrels

Do Flying Squirrels Really Fly?
Contrary to their name, flying squirrels do not actually fly. They glide from tree to tree with the help of a parachute-like flap of skin and fur that stretches from their wrists to their ankles. With the help of their long limbs and tails, flying squirrels are able to steer and control their flight path, which can range up to 100 feet.

Flying Squirrel Habits
These omnivorous creatures feed on fruit, seeds, insects, flowers, spiders, fungi, birds’ eggs, and tree sap. The smallest and only nocturnal squirrel, flying squirrels typically have 2 litters of 2-7 pups per season, usually in midsummer and early spring. Flying squirrels usually live in wooded areas and make their nests in trees. Though they are similar to other squirrel species, they are equipped with longer limbs for gliding.

Do Flying Squirrels Live in Your Attic?
Flying squirrels often build nests in trees. They are also known to enter homes in late fall when temperatures begin to drop. In addition to nesting in high places like attics, flying squirrels can also be found in external walls and between floors, using insulation as nesting material.
Highly social by nature, their playful, nocturnal habits give them away. Homeowners with flying squirrel stowaways often hear them scurrying around in the attic or coming and going after nightfall.

Threats from Flying Squirrels
Flying squirrels can do considerable damage to exterior trim and siding as they widen or create new entryways to your home. Once inside a home or structure, they may gnaw on electrical wiring and possibly cause a short or a fire.

Do Flying Squirrels Carry Rabies?
While there has never been a report of a flying squirrel having rabies, they can contract typhus, though it is rarely passed to humans. Flying squirrels also carry lice, fleas, mites, and other parasites.

Signs of a Flying Squirrel Infestation
Evidence of flying squirrels can be found via droppings, tracks, scents, or sightings. Inspect the roofline of your home for chew marks and small entry points. In addition to scratching sounds in the night, you may also hear low, soft chirping or clucking sounds. These social beings live in colonies of up to 20 squirrels, so if you find one squirrel, there are probably more hiding out. If you suspect these curious, intelligent creatures are living in your home, you may have to do some nighttime snooping to detect them.

Prevent Flying Squirrels from Invading Your Home
Flying Squirrels are protected game animals in many areas, but you can keep them from entering your home by performing structural exclusion methods. Use metal flashing or metal mesh to cover any possible entry routes for an animal out foraging. These squirrels are small, so remember to cover all cracks, holes, crevices, and gaps.

If you suspect a squirrel problem, contact Rochester Pest Pro for a quote.