The Flying Squirrel is a petite rodent that equal in size to a roof rat. They weigh a few ounces and are around 6-8 inches in length. They are a brownish-grey color with streaks of black down the sides of the body, complimenting their webbed skin between the front and rear legs used for gliding. This skin is ultimately what gave the flying squirrel its name; while they do not actually fly, they glide through the air from an elevated jumping point.
While the flying squirrel is very common in Georgia, it is very rare to see them due to the fact that they are nocturnal creatures. While going unnoticed by most people, the squirrel makes its presence known when they decide to take up occupancy in an attic. While making noises frequently during the night hours, they stay pretty active storing fruits and nuts that are plentiful during the fall. They are known for being able to store 150 acorns in a single night and 15,000 in a single season.
Flying squirrels normally enter a home from a nearby tree, gliding down onto the roof from the elevated perch. They then search for an entry point around the roofline. After gaining access, they will create a nest and a litter box. Much like cats, flying squirrels make a litter box and only defecate in one spot. Although they store some food in the house, most is hidden in their nests, tree cavities, cracks in trees and the crotches of limbs. These tiny squirrels will even bury seeds in the ground.
If you find yourself listening to pitter patters above your head while lying in bed at night and wondering what is in your attic, the flying squirrel could be your culprit. All Exterminating Wildlife Division can help with any issues you may have with flying squirrels. We will perform an inspection to confirm the identity of the species and develop a plan that fits the customer’s budget and goals.
