Flying Squirrels
Flying Squirrel Identification
Flying squirrels are the only nocturnal squirrel species found in the Northeast. Unlike their daytime-loving relatives, red and grey squirrels, these large-eyed squirrels are most active at night.
Signs of Flying Squirrels
Flying squirrels can pose a unique hazard if they build their nests indoors, including in barns and other outbuildings. Not only can their nesting materials pose a fire hazard, but they are also known to gnaw on structural elements and wiring. Because they are active at night, you may not see them in person. You can, however, keep an eye out for signs like the following:
Droppings
Like other rodents, flying squirrels produce dark droppings that look similar to grains of rice. They are usually about a quarter inch long with tapered ends and occur in piles. They are sometimes mistaken for mouse droppings, however, flying squirrels will latrine in a specific area causing piles of droppings.
Building Damage
Flying squirrels can chew through siding and roofing materials, particularly if their young are inside and they cannot get to them otherwise. They are also known to eat the fruit on trees and crops in gardens as well as chew on wires and claw holes in soffits and eaves.
Unexplained Noises
Flying squirrels make many noises when they are indoors. You might hear scampering, scratching, or chewing in walls, attics, and other out-of-the-way spots. You also may not hear them as they are smaller than grey squirrels and the insulation of the attic can stifle the sounds of their movement.
How Do I Get Rid of Flying Squirrels?
Eliminating flying squirrels can be a challenge. You might try deterrents such as ultrasonic devices or mothballs to startle them away or keep them from returning once they leave. However, these options are rarely effective. Some steps to consider taking include:
- Regular Outdoor Maintenance: Simple actions like moving bird feeders farther from buildings and trimming tree branches from the exterior of the building can reduce flying squirrels’ access.
- Exclusion: Sealing possible entry points, such as broken screens, gaps and cracks in foundations and siding, and other openings can prevent these pests from moving in.
- Call for Professional Flying Squirrel Removal: Partner with a reputable pest control company for professional removal. Technicians have specialized training and equipment to make sure flying squirrels are completely removed safely and humanely. Exclusion is absolutely critical to the removal and prevention of flying squirrels as they can get into very small entry points. Additionally, flying squirrels often live in families or colonies of up to 100 squirrels. Flying squirrels are also often multi-denning animals and, if disturbed in your attic, will relocate temporarily to their secondary den until the preferred attic/den has quieted down.
Flying Squirrel Facts
Lifespan
The majority of flying squirrels live less than one year. However, those that survive often live for an average of five to six years in the wild.
Food Sources
Flying squirrels are unique because they are omnivores. Like their relatives, grey and red squirrels, they will eat seeds, nuts, fruit, and fungi. They also eat bird eggs, young birds and mice, insect carrion, and moths.
Reproduction
Flying squirrels often have litters of two to three babies and mate twice annually during the warm weather months. Females care for their young and nurse them for more than 60 days, on average.
Risk of Disease
Flying squirrels can carry and transmit the rabies virus, which can cause severe neurological symptoms and even death if left untreated. They can also transmit germs that cause typhus or cat scratch fever as well as introduce secondary pests like ticks and fleas, which can lead to other health risks.
Where are flying squirrels found?
Flying squirrels are common throughout the Eastern U.S. and from Texas to Minnesota, Montana, Idaho, and the West Coast.
When are flying squirrels active?
These mammals are active at night. They have a sharp sense of hearing and large eyes that provide a navigational advantage in the dark.
More Information About Flying Squirrels
Difference Between Grey Squirrels & Flying Squirrels
How to Get Rid of Flying Squirrels in Your Home & Attic
Where do Flying Squirrels Live & Nest?
Frequently Asked Questions
Do flying squirrels fly?
These rodents don’t technically fly. Flying squirrels use their specialized membranes to glide, often spanning distances of 150 feet or more.
Do flying squirrels bite?
Although flying squirrels are not aggressive, they do have sharp teeth and are capable of biting if they feel threatened.
How to get a flying squirrel out of your house?
Flying squirrels can move quickly and tend to live in groups. Calling for professional removal is the most effective way to make sure you eliminate all flying squirrels from the premises.
What do flying squirrel droppings look like?
Flying squirrels are latrining animals, so you will likely see clusters or small piles of dark, oval-shaped pellets about a quarter inch long.
Are flying squirrels nocturnal?
Yes, flying squirrels are most active at night.
