Pet Flying Squirrels

Pet flying squirrels size vary from 6-12 inches in body length, and 4-10 inches in tail length. They have large eyes, prominent ears, and a bushy tail, and are usually found in the southern and eastern Unites States. They are brown on top and white below, with a flat tail that allows them to steer while jumping between tree branches. Despite their name, flying squirrels don't fly but glide from one tree to another. They have a membrane that extends from the wrists on the forelegs to the ankles on the hind legs, enabling them to glide long distances. Unlike other squirrels who have two breeding periods, flying squirrels have only one - from January to March. There are mainly two species of flying squirrels: the southern and the northern flying squirrel. These species differ in appearance, behavior and habitat. The southern flying squirrels (glaucomys volans) are smaller, more dominant and aggressive as compared to the northern flying squirrels, and are usually found in deciduous forests.

Pet Flying Squirrel Food
Flying squirrels are omnivorous mammals having a basic diet which includes nuts, buds, fruits, grains, fledglings, and bird eggs. In winters, fungi, tree bark, and mushroom are common foods that they gather and store. In captivity, they should be supplied with a variety of foods to ensure they are getting sufficient nutrition. Pet flying squirrels feed well on pine nuts, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, pecans, walnuts, acorns, and hickory nuts. They can also be supplemented with bird seed mix, a variety of fresh veggies like corn and sweet potatoes, and fruits. Mealworms, waxworms, hard boiled eggs or chicken can be given to them to add a bit of protein to their diet.

Pet Flying Squirrel Habitat and Housing
In the wild, flying squirrels preferable place of habitation is the woods, as there they find all the food and nesting material they require. Normally they make their home in a hollow tree trunk, or in branches near a tree trunk. But in captivity, you should try constructing a woodland home for your squirrel, or can use a mesh wire flying squirrel trap or cage with a removable tray for easy cleaning. You can put twigs, leaves, grass, branches and bark on the bottom of the homemade squirrel trap to give your squirrel a homely feeling. Make sure you clean the cage at least once a week to ensure the proper health of your pet.

Pet Flying Squirrel Social Behavior and Care
Pet flying squirrels temperament vary as per their types. Normally pet flying squirrels are solitary during the summer, but prefer to stay together in large groups during the winter to keep warm. These squirrels develop a strong bond with their owner, especially if brought at a young age. Once they get familiar with their owner's body odor, warmth, etc. they develop a sense of security with them and become very loving and affectionate. They like playing, climbing, bonding, and have a natural tendency to rustle around, snuggle up and sleep in their owner's pocket, and are hence are also known as pocket pets.

Their teeth keep growing throughout their lives, so don't forget to provide them with some chewing materials like hard bark and large bones. Like all other animals, flying squirrels can also get sick and may show signs like watery eyes, lame attitude, abscesses, excessive scratching and biting the skin, unnatural feces and underweight. But by providing them a nutritious diet and a habitat where they can play and exercise, you can surely reduce the risks of them getting sick.

Flying squirrels are naturally wild animals and are not easily available as pets so you must check with the legality of keeping them as pets. Before you buy flying squirrels from any flying squirrel breeders, prepare yourself for the commitment of time and pet care they will require. If you are buying more than one squirrel, its better to have a separate flying squirrel cage as these squirrels are mostly solitary and like their own space. Whether you purchase male or female squirrels, they don't differ much in behavior and usually make great and lovable pets.