Southern Flying Squirrels (Glaucomys Volans) are secretive, nocturnal creatures that are rarely seen. They don't really fly, but rather use their excess skin between their front and hind legs in order to glide. They are excellent and agile gliders and launch themselves from the tops of tall trees, with typical flights of over 60 ft, however they have the capability to glide over 300 ft.
Flying Squirrels feed on fruit and nuts, including Beech, White and Red Oak acorns, Hickories and Walnuts, and Pecans. They also collect and eat mushrooms, regularly foraging for them when available. Although no definite studies have been conducted, researches believe Flying Squirrels are perhaps more adept at finding truffles and other mushrooms as trained dogs or pigs. Since they cannot digest the fungal spores, they are key dispersal agents for fungi.
Scientists have recently discovered a surprising characteristic of all 3 Flying Squirrel species which are native to North America - their fur glows a fluorescent bright pink when exposed to ultraviolet light! The reasons for this fluorescence is unclear, with speculation for its purpose ranging from communication or mating to warding off predators. What we do know is that other nocturnal creatures have exhibited this trait, such as members of the Didelphidae marsupial family of Australia. As diurnal creatures our perspective on the animals of the twilight and night is limited and many potential discoveries await further research.
I recall seeing a flying squirrel launch from a tall tree near the top of a hill down to a grove of walnut trees during summers. I never saw them climb back up the hill. |
