Flying squirrel
Flying squirrel Introduction
The Flying squirrel (tribe Pteromyini), any of more than 50 species of gliding squirrels. Three species are North American, two live in northern Eurasia, and all others are found in the temperate and tropical forests of India and other parts of Asia. Flying squirrels are known for soaring anywhere from 150 to 500 feet, sailing from tree to tree to avoid ground predators—but they actually glide rather than fly. Flying squirrels don’t have their own means of propulsion, like a bird or bat, but glide using a furry membrane called the patagium that connects at their wrists down to their ankles. When they leap from a tree and spread their limbs, this flap of loose skin forms a square and acts like a hang glider.
Keywords to learn
Eurasia: Europe and Asia considered together as one continent. Eurasia is the largest continental area on Earth
About Me
Hey Kids, my name is Fallon the Flying squirrel and I am very happy to meet you. Learn more about me and my species @
http://www.kids.nationalgeographic.com
Key Data
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Order:Rodentia.
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Lifespan:Five years.
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Class:Mammalia.
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Scientific Name:Pteromyini.
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Mass:3.5 ounces to 5.5 pounds.
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Length:From three inches to two feet.
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Region found:Worldwide.
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Population Status:Least concern – critically endangered.
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Current population trend:Varies.
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Diet:Omnivorous.
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Sexual maturity:11 months.
You have just learned about the Flying squirrels, they are known for soaring anywhere from 150 to 500 feet, sailing from tree to tree to avoid ground predators—but they actually glide rather than fly.
Now that you know more about the Flying squirrels by learning the key data above, be sure also to check out the fun facts. When you are finished learning the facts, try answering the questions in the Q&A corner on the bottom right side of the page.
Download questions about the Flying squirrels here: Flying squirrel (answers are on this page)
Teachers. For more in-depth worksheets on the Flying squirrels. Click on Kidskonnect Worksheets
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Flying squirrels Fun Facts for Kids
- # 1. Flying squirrels can turn by lowering one arm, while a specialized piece of cartilage not found in other gliding mammals extends from the wrist to support the pagatium and help them steer.
- # 2. Flying squirrels are capable of making 180-degree turns in mid-air to evade flying predators like owls.
- # 3. Flying squirrels move their hands and feet in opposite directions also helps the squirrel direct their movements so they land safely on their strong, silent padded feet.
- # 4. The flying squirrels long, fluffy tails stabilize their flight and flipping those tails up helps them put on the brakes.
- # 5. The flying squirrel make their homes in in woodpecker holes, nests abandoned by birds, or tree cavities in forests, woodlands, and jungles.
Q&A Corner
# 1. Where does the Flying squirrels live?
# 2. What is the average lifespan of the Flying squirrel?
# 3. What is the population status of the Flying squirrel?
# 4. What is the average weight of the Flying squirrel?
# 5. Name two places Flying squirrels make there home?
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