Notes on Flying Squirrels

As we’ve stated before, the flying squirrel is a very common squirrel here in Northeast, Ohio. But since they are strictly nocturnal and rarely seen, many people don’t know even know of their existence.

On a recent flying squirrel removal job, Ryan took some pictures which reveal some of the habits of the flying squirrel. ( We encourage you to click on the photos to enlarge them for better viewing.)

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First, a refresher. The Southern flying squirrel is a very small squirrel. They are very light and fit in the palm of the hand. Because of their small size, they need very small openings for their dens; normally knots of trees and woodpecker holes. Flying squirrels get their names from the way they glide from tree to tree using the loose flap of skin that is attached to their arms and legs (denoted by white line of fur in picture to right). They jump and unfurl this skin like a hang glider, using their short, flat tail like a rudder. They are nocturnal.

Winter Often Congregates Squirrels (and Squirrel Poop) in Structures

Flying squirrels are not all that territorial and will nest communally, sometimes in large numbers. This typically happens in the winter. They huddle together en masse for warmth. Warm, dry cavities with good protection from the elements are flying squirrel gold and they don’t mind sharing prime real estate. This is the time of year when homeowners hear something in the attic and call us to investigate.

Evidence of flying squirrels consists of

Noises in attics during the middle of the night
Evidence of squirrel poop found in the attic and other spaces
Small openings present in fascia, ridge vents, soffits, etc. where squirrels can enter/exit

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Here is a a roof with its ridge vent removed. The vent (and fascia/soffit lower on the house) was being accessed by the squirrels. That white stuff in the middle of the picture is a fur ball of sorts (insulation, really). There are plenty of trees around this house (typical squirrel habitat), but this attic space was able to be accessed and provided a great winter nesting area.

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In addition to the nest, Ryan was able to snap some photos of the toilet area for these flyers. Why use an outhouse if there is indoor plumbing, right? Well, to us, this picture reveals why it is advisable to get flying squirrels out of structures and keep them out. This is just one of the reasons why flying squirrels should be kept out of houses.

Flying Squirrel Removal in Akron / Canton / Kent Area

You’ve either landed on this page out of curiosity/info seeking OR you have a flying squirrel problem.

If you’re reading this because you suspect a flying squirrel problem and you live in Portage, Stark, or Summit Counties, OH , we can help!

As the pictures above and below show, we will:

Confirm flying squirrels are the problem (sometimes mice cause attic noises)
Find the entry/exit points
Remove the squirrels
Make any needed squirrel-proof repairs as needed

Referring to the pictures above from the recent job:

Flying squirrels were the problem as evidence in above pictures shows
Ryan found entry points at the ridge vent itself as well as an entry lower on the house where the fascia, roof, and chimney met. (See pics below)
Here is a trap at that lower point on the house with numerous flying squirrels in it. Removal accomplished.
The squirrels’ entry/exit at the low point (where the traps were placed) was repaired (shown in first picture below). And, the ridge vent was screened off before being replaced to stop entry there (shown in the second picture below)