Flying Squirrels

Flying squirrels don’t really fly they glide from trees using a flap of loose skin that connects their front and hind legs, and can cross distances up to 150 feet using their tale to steer the direction.

Identification

• Flying squirrels have a grayish brown body with white belly

• Soft and thick fur

• Weighs 4 to 6.5 ounces

• Up to 12 inches long including the tail, which is nearly as long as the head and body

• Large eyes

• Make a low, soft chirp when they are in danger

Environment

• Flying squirrels are nocturnal but may also be seen during the day

• Eat mostly plants, seeds, nuts, leaves, bark, flowers, and roots

• Usually nest in tree cavities and sometimes make “dreys” during the warmer months

Threats

• Occasionally, flying squirrels find refuge in attics when roof gaps make it easily accessible

• Will often make a nest in your attic insulation

• Can cause odor and damage from urine

• Can keep you away at night with their nocturnal activity

Treatment

• Provide an exclusion barrier along the roofline

• Set traps out

• Locate and seal off any entry points ¼” or larger to prevent squirrels and other rodents from entering your home

• Caulk any openings or crevices

• To keep squirrels from using utility wires as a way to your attic, slit a 2-foot section of 2-inch PVC pipe lengthwise and slip it over the wire. This makes squirrels unable to maintain their footing when the pipe rotates.

• Cut back tree limbs that are close to your structure