# Northern Flying Squirrel (*Glaucomys sabrinus*)

> Northern flying squirrels do not truly fly — they glide between trees on a furry membrane called a patagium, steering with their flat tail. They live in boreal forests across North America, weigh about 110–230 g, and are active at night feeding on fungi, nuts, and tree sap.

- **Category:** Mammal
- **Conservation status (IUCN):** Least Concern
- **Range:** Boreal and mixed forests of Canada, Alaska, and the northern and western United States.
- **Canonical page:** https://globalanimalguide.org/animals/flying-squirrel/
- **Last reviewed:** 2026-07-16

## Scientific classification

- **Kingdom:** Animalia
- **Phylum:** Chordata
- **Class:** Mammalia
- **Order:** Rodentia
- **Family:** Sciuridae
- **Genus:** Glaucomys

## Facts at a glance

| Attribute | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Scientific name | Glaucomys sabrinus |
| Diet | Fungi, nuts, seeds, insects, tree sap |
| Habitat | Mature boreal and mixed forests of Canada and the northern United States |
| Lifespan | About 5–6 years in the wild |
| Weight | 110–230 g (4–8 oz) |
| Top speed | Glides up to 50 m (160 ft) between trees |
| Conservation status | Least Concern (IUCN) |

## Patagium gliding

A skin flap stretches from wrist to ankle, letting flying squirrels steer mid-glide with tail and limbs. They climb to a height, launch, and land on tree trunks up to 50 metres away — saving energy and avoiding ground predators.

## Nocturnal and communal

Large eyes suit night foraging on lichens, truffles, and bird eggs. Multiple squirrels may share tree cavities in winter, huddling for warmth in harsh boreal climates.

## Ecological role

Flying squirrels disperse mycorrhizal fungi spores through droppings, supporting forest health. Owls, martens, and house cats are major predators.

## Southern flying squirrel cousin

The smaller southern flying squirrel (Glaucomys volans) ranges through eastern North America. Both species are Least Concern but depend on mature forest — logging of old trees reduces nest sites.

## Frequently asked questions

### Do flying squirrels fly?

No — they glide using a patagium skin flap. Powered flight requires wings; mammals this size cannot achieve it.

### Where do flying squirrels live?

Boreal and mixed forests of Canada, Alaska, and the northern and western United States.

### Can you keep a flying squirrel as a pet?

Native species are protected in many areas. Some exotic species are restricted; check local wildlife laws.

### What do flying squirrels eat?

Mainly fungi and lichens, plus nuts, seeds, insects, and tree sap.

### How far can flying squirrels glide?

Typically 20–30 metres, with exceptional glides over 50 metres between tall trees.

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Source: Global Animal Guide (https://globalanimalguide.org/animals/flying-squirrel/). Licensed CC BY-NC 4.0 — free for non-commercial reuse with attribution.