Southern Flying Squirrel Identification & Behavior

Southern Flying Squirrel

Actual Size: 8 to10” including tail

Characteristics: Gray-brown fur, white-colored belly, and large dark eyes.

Habitat: Nests in natural cavities and woodpecker holes. Will enter homes in late fall, occupying attics, external walls, and between floors, using insulation as nesting material.

Habits:

Will sometimes enter homes in late fall when temperatures drop.
Social, nocturnal creatures that feed on nuts and fruit from trees.
Unlike their name, southern flying squirrels do not actually fly long distances, but glide.

Southern Flying Squirrels in Knoxville TN

Southern flying squirrels are known for their ability to glide and are found in deciduous and wooded areas in North America. Between their front and rear legs, flying squirrels have a furry membrane called a patagium that enables them to glide through the air, often from one tree to another. Southern flying squirrels become pests when they take up residence in a homeowner’s attic or walls. They can cause odor and damage with their urine, and keep people awake with their nocturnal activity.

Southern Flying Squirrel Habitat

Southern flying squirrels are most often found in large hickory and beech trees, as well as maple, poplar, and oak trees. The southern flying squirrel will often nest in natural cavities and woodpecker holes. They are rarely found in suburban neighborhoods unless there are heavily wooded areas in the vicinity. Flying squirrels are known to enter homes in late fall when temperatures begin to drop. In addition to nesting in high places like attics, flying squirrels can also be found in external walls and between floors, using insulation as nesting material.

Southern Flying Squirrel Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

Southern flying squirrels have been implicated in the spread of human diseases, although direct transmission to humans is rare. However, they can do considerable damage to the exterior of homes as they try to create new entryways to access attics and interior wall voids. Once inside a home or structure, they can gnaw on electrical wiring, possibly causing an electrical short or fire. Since flying squirrels are quite social and nocturnal, homeowners with a flying squirrel infestation often hear them scurrying around in the attic after midnight. If you are having an issue with southern flying squirrels, it is best to consult a professional wildlife control company for removal.