Flying Squirrel Care at a Glance
Source: AEMV exotic mammal guidelines, Gliding Mammal Conservation
| Requirement | Minimum | Recommended | Why |
|---|---|---|---|
| Height | 4 feet | 5-6 feet | Vertical space for climbing and gliding |
| Floor space | 150 sq in per pair | 200+ sq in | Active animals need room |
| Bar spacing | ½ inch | ⅜ inch | Can squeeze through large gaps |
| Temperature | 65-80°F | 70-75°F | Susceptible to cold stress |
| Light cycle | 12h dark (nocturnal) | Bare red light for observation | Disrupts sleep cycle with bright light |
| Food Type | Safe? | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sugar glider pellets | Base diet | High-quality brand | |
| Insects (mealworms, crickets) | Daily 3-5 | Protein source | |
| Fresh fruits | Daily small amount | Berries, apple, melon | |
| Nuts/seeds | 2-3x/week treat | High fat — limit | |
| Chocolate/caffeine | Never | Toxic to small mammals |
Care Essentials Checklist
Southern flying squirrels (Glaucomys volans) are the most commonly kept flying squirrel species in North American aviculture -- small (2 to 4 ounces), social, and capable of forming strong bonds with humans who interact with them from a young age. Unlike sugar gliders (which are marsupials), flying squirrels are true rodents that glide rather than fly, using a membrane (patagium) stretching from wrist to ankle to slow their descent between trees. They are strictly nocturnal, quite vocal when active, and become genuinely attached to their owners -- many flying squirrel keepers carry their squirrels in a bonding pouch (a soft fabric pouch worn against the body) during the day so the squirrel can sleep while remaining with its owner. They live 6 to 10 years in captivity, which is significantly longer than their 2 to 5 year wild lifespan.
Legal considerations first
In most US states, flying squirrels can be kept legally as pets. However, several states require permits or prohibit them (California, Georgia, Hawaii, and others; regulations vary and change). Always verify current regulations in your state before acquiring a flying squirrel. Additionally, the Migratory Bird Treaty Act does not apply to flying squirrels, but removal of wild individuals from nature is regulated -- all pet trade flying squirrels should be captive-bred from licensed breeders. Flying squirrel breeders can be found through the National Flying Squirrel Association (NFSA).
Housing: enclosure design for an arboreal glider
Flying squirrels need tall enclosures more than wide ones -- they are arboreal and need vertical space to climb, jump, and glide. A minimum enclosure size is 2 feet wide by 2 feet deep by 3 feet tall; a bird-style flight cage with horizontal bars is ideal. The bar spacing must be very narrow (1/2 inch maximum) -- flying squirrels can compress their bodies through small gaps. Include: multiple branches at varying heights for climbing and launching, a nest box or hanging nest pouch at the top of the enclosure for sleeping, and solid flooring to prevent foot injuries. Exercise wheel: a solid-surface wheel (not mesh) at least 9 to 11 inches diameter is essential -- flying squirrels are very active at night and will run for hours. Ambient temperature should be 65 to 75 degrees F; flying squirrels enter a torpor-like state in cold temperatures (below 40 degrees F) that can be dangerous if food and water aren't available for arousal.
Diet: mimicking the wild omnivore
Southern flying squirrels in the wild eat primarily hard mast (acorns, hickory nuts, other hard-shelled nuts), fungi, insects, bird eggs, and occasional fruit and seeds. In captivity, the diet should reflect this varied, high-protein, moderate-fat profile. A good base diet: a commercial pelleted diet formulated for squirrels or exotic rodents, supplemented with fresh nuts in shells (walnuts, pecans, hazelnuts -- limit peanuts and almonds), mealworms, crickets, and small amounts of fresh fruit and vegetables. Avoid high-sugar, high-starch treats. Calcium supplementation is important -- flying squirrels are prone to metabolic bone disease, particularly when calcium-to-phosphorus ratios are imbalanced (high nut diets are phosphorus-heavy). Cuttlebone or a calcium supplement dusted on food 3 times weekly is recommended.
Bonding: the critical early period
Flying squirrels that are handled from the time their eyes open (3 to 4 weeks old) and carried regularly in a bonding pouch develop the strong human bond that makes them extraordinary pets. The bonding pouch allows the squirrel to imprint on the owner's scent and heartbeat while sleeping during the day. Adult flying squirrels that were not handled as joeys can be tamed but require patient, methodical handling -- they bite when stressed and their bites are surprisingly sharp. A hand-raised flying squirrel from an experienced breeder is the appropriate starting point for anyone new to the species.
Health: metabolic bone disease and calcium management
Metabolic bone disease (MBD) from calcium deficiency is the most common serious health condition in captive flying squirrels. Signs include soft, pliable bones, pathologic fractures, difficulty climbing, and in severe cases, seizures from hypocalcemia. The condition is entirely preventable with appropriate calcium supplementation and a diet that doesn't heavily favor phosphorus-rich nuts. Annual veterinary exams with a vet experienced in exotic rodents, including assessment of bone density and calcium-phosphorus balance, are recommended.
Sources: Thorington RW et al. "Squirrels of the World"; National Flying Squirrel Association care guidelines; Quesenberry KE et al. "Ferrets, Rabbits, and Rodents" 4th ed; NFSA breeder directory.