Southern Flying Squirrel
Biology
The southern flying squirrel is one of the three species of flying squirrels. It is found throughout the Midwestern to Northeastern United States. Southern flying squirrels have gray brown fur on top with darker markings on their sides and are a cream color underneath. They have large dark eyes and a flat tail. They have a furry membrane called a patagium that extends between the front and back legs, this allows them to glide through the air.
Females can produce two litters each year. The average is 2–7 young per litter, with a gestation period of 40 days. The young become independent at 6 months of age. In nature, the lifespan of this species is on average 5-6 years, but in captivity is 10 years.
Habitat
The southern flying squirrels ideal habitat is forested trees. They nest in natural cavities and woodpecker holes, or build their nests out of leaves and twigs. Leaf nests are normally used as a shelter or a resting site in the summer months, whereas cavities are used for breeding and shelter during the winter.
Threats
Squirrels may cause problems for homeowners by nesting in their attic, or in the exterior of the structure. They enter attics for warmth and safety; and often to birth, nest, and raise a litter. These pests are savage chewers and will gnaw their way through wooden structures to gain access to the interior. Once inside, they normally make scratching noises (usually at sunrise and sunset), leave droppings all over, and endanger all attic structures.
Squirrels are transmitters of human disease. It is very important not to handle wildlife by yourself. It is advised to have a professional handle the situation.
Habits
The Southern Flying Squirrel are nocturnal animals, this makes interactions with human rare. Southern flying squirrels are social animals. They have been witnessed gliding together in groups from tree tops, in like a parachuting effect. Although they are able to glide with ease, they are very clumsy walkers. If they happen to be on the ground and feel threatened or in a dangerous situation, they would rather hide than attempt to escape.
FEEDING PREFERENCES
Squirrels are omnivores, but they mostly eat plants, nuts, seeds, fungi, and fruits. Occasionally, they will eat insects, eggs, and even small snakes.
Prevention & Control
Due to the possible damage to your property and for your safety and health, wildlife issues are serious and should be handled professionally.
Structural Pest Squirrel Program
Our service technician will perform a thorough inspection on the exterior and interior of your structure to locate all problem areas and properly identify the pest you are having.
All programs are specially designed to target the pest that is infesting your structure.
