A silky, dove-gray nocturnal squirrel with enormous liquid black eyes and a furred gliding membrane that stretches wing-like between wrist and ankle when it leaps.
Temperament
Common health issues
- Nutritional deficiency
- Dental issues
- Obesity
Care at a glance
- ExerciseHigh
Needs a wheel or safe floor time every day to burn energy.
- GroomingLow upkeep
They keep themselves clean โ just keep the enclosure fresh.
- Living spaceCompact setup
The enclosure is their whole world โ fits easily in any home.
- Owner experienceSome experience helps
A little know-how makes life smoother.
- Commitment10โ15 years
Plan for a long, loving relationship.
Health to watch: Nutritional deficiency ยท Dental issues ยท Obesity
๐ Care guide
The southern flying squirrel (Glaucomys volans) inhabits the deciduous woodlands of the eastern United States and glides between trees using its patagium. Tiny at 45-85 grams, it can live ten to fifteen years and forms a deep, doting bond when adopted young, often riding in a pocket or bonding pouch. They are colony animals and fare best kept in pairs or small groups. Give them a very tall cage or converted aviary with vertical branches, fleece pouches, and room to glide. Their diet must be calcium-rich to prevent metabolic bone disease: a base of nuts, seeds, and fruit alongside insects, and calcium-dusted foods or a formulated flyer diet. They are nocturnal, so expect night-time activity. Ownership is illegal or permit-restricted in numerous US states, and native-wildlife laws often apply, so buy only captive-bred animals and check state regulations.
Frequently asked questions
How much activity does a Southern Flying Squirrel need?
High. Needs a wheel or safe floor time every day to burn energy.
How much grooming does a Southern Flying Squirrel need?
Low upkeep. They keep themselves clean โ just keep the enclosure fresh.
How much space does a Southern Flying Squirrel need?
Compact setup. The enclosure is their whole world โ fits easily in any home.
Is a Southern Flying Squirrel a good fit for first-time owners?
Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.
How long do Southern Flying Squirrel live?
10โ15 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.
What health issues affect the Southern Flying Squirrel?
Keep an eye out for Nutritional deficiency, Dental issues, Obesity. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.
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