Flying squirrels (scientifically known as Pteromyini or Petauristini) are a tribe of 50 species of squirrels in the family Sciuridae. They are not in fact capable of full flight in the same way as birds or bats, but are able to glide from 1 tree to another with the aid of a patagium, a furry skin membrane that stretches from wrist to ankle. Their long tails also provide stability as they glide. Anatomically they are very similar to other squirrels with a number of adaptations to suit their life style; their limb bones are longer and their hand bones, foot bones, and distal vertebrae are shorter. Flying squirrels are able to steer and exert control over their glide path with their limbs and tail.
Molecular studies have shown that flying squirrels are monophyletic (of 1 phylum/clade with no branching within the phylum) and originated some 18–20 million years ago. The genus Paracitellus is the earliest lineage to the flying squirrel dating back to the late Oligocene era. Most are nocturnal and omnivorous, eating fruit, seeds, buds, flowers, insects, gastropods, spiders, fungi, bird's eggs, tree sap, and young birds. The young are born in a nest and are at 1st naked and helpless. They are cared for by their mother and by 5 weeks are able to practice gliding skills so that by 10 weeks they are ready to leave the nest.
Some captive-bred southern flying squirrels have become domesticated as small household pets, a type of "pocket pet".
Appearances[]
A female northern flying squirrel (who was simply called Flying Squirrel) appeared in "Who's in the Hole?".
Another flying squirrel appeared at the beginning of "Giants".
A flying squirrel was also shown at the beginning of "Can You Feel It?".