Are There Flying Squirrels in Missouri?

Where Flying Squirrels Are Found in Missouri

Flying squirrels inhabit forests throughout Missouri, with species composition varying by latitude and forest type. Southern Flying Squirrels occur throughout the state, from the Mississippi River floodplains in the east to the Ozark plateau in the south. The Ozark region, with its extensive deciduous and mixed forests, provides prime habitat. Northern Flying Squirrels occupy northern Missouri forests and the northern Ozark highlands. The Missouri River valley contains suitable habitat, particularly where native forests persist. The Mississippi River bottomlands along Missouri's eastern border support strong Southern Flying Squirrel populations. The Mark Twain National Forest in south-central Missouri provides extensive habitat. The Current River and Jacks Fork River valleys contain ideal forest conditions. Forested areas in northeastern Missouri support both species where ranges overlap. Urban and suburban green spaces with mature trees throughout Missouri cities frequently harbor flying squirrels. For more on flying squirrel in Missouri, see ourMissouri flying squirrel guide.

Season and Timing in Missouri

Flying squirrels in Missouri are active year-round, with seasonal patterns influenced by temperature and food availability. Winter is the best time for observation, as reduced foliage improves visibility and snow reveals tracks. Breeding occurs in late winter and early spring, with litters born between March and July. Young squirrels disperse in late summer and fall, establishing independent territories. Fall activity intensifies as squirrels forage heavily and build extensive food caches. Missouri's moderate winters allow flying squirrels to remain relatively active, entering torpor rather than hibernation. Winter dormancy includes periodic feeding and limited movement during milder spells. Spring activity increases as cached food depletes and fresh plant growth begins. Summer activity remains steady as young squirrels grow and explore territories. The transition seasons see increased mobility and territorial interactions between squirrels. You can also browseMissouri wildlife.

How to Identify Flying Squirrels

Flying squirrels are Missouri's smallest tree squirrels, weighing just 2 to 3 ounces. The definitive feature is the furry gliding membrane connecting front and rear legs, visible only during flight. Their fluffy, flattened tail serves as a rudder and braking system during glides. Fur is soft and cinnamon-brown to gray on the back with white underparts. Eyes are notably large and forward-facing, an essential adaptation for nocturnal activity. Ears are small and rounded, lacking the ear tufts present on other Missouri squirrel species. Their movements are quick and jerky compared to the deliberate motions of daytime squirrels. When resting, they crouch close to tree trunks rather than sitting upright. The gliding membrane cannot be observed when stationary, requiring flight observation for certain identification. Northern and Southern species are nearly identical and difficult to distinguish in the field. See all of ourwildlife guides.

Where Sightings Concentrate in Missouri

Flying squirrel sightings concentrate in mature deciduous and mixed forests with abundant cavity trees. The Ozark region provides extensive habitat suitable for both species observation. The Mark Twain National Forest offers accessible habitat with reliable flying squirrel populations. The Current River valley and surrounding forests in south-central Missouri provide scenic habitat. The Jacks Fork River and its valley contain mature forest stands supporting populations. The Mississippi River floodplains, particularly in southeastern Missouri, offer bottomland hardwood habitat. State parks throughout the Ozarks, including Devil's Promenade and Ha Ha Tonka, contain suitable habitat. Northern Missouri state forests support populations, though they are less accessible for observation. Private woodlots with mature oak and hickory throughout the state harbor flying squirrels. Suburban zones with established tree canopy, particularly in Springfield and Columbia areas, frequently contain populations. OurMissouri wildlife guidecovers more species you may run into.

Typical Behavior of Flying Squirrels

Flying squirrels are nocturnal, spending daylight hours in tree cavities, woodpecker holes, or constructed leaf nests. Emergence at dusk marks the beginning of their active foraging and travel periods. Diet includes acorns, hickory nuts, seeds, berries, fungi, and insects. Seasonal diet shifts reflect available resources, with mast crops dominating fall and fungi more prominent in spring. Food caching in fall provides essential nutrition throughout winter and early spring. Squirrels bury thousands of nuts in scattered locations and rely on spatial memory for recovery. Gliding allows travel of 50 feet or more while conserving significant energy. This adaptation is particularly valuable in Missouri's mature forest habitat. They are social during breeding season but generally solitary otherwise. Vocalizations are minimal compared to daytime squirrels, consisting of soft chirps and squeaks. Seasonal variation in behavior reflects changing environmental conditions. Read more aboutflying squirrel in Missouri.

Coexistence and Safety Notes

Flying squirrels pose no threat to people and are protected by Missouri wildlife laws. They do not transmit rabies and are far too small to bite defensively. These delicate animals actively avoid human contact and interaction. No special precautions are needed for outdoor activities in Missouri forests containing flying squirrels. Attic entry is rare but can occur, particularly in older buildings with openings. Opening a window allows the squirrel to exit voluntarily without human intervention. If trapping becomes necessary, extreme gentleness is required due to their fragility. Relocating trapped squirrels requires proper permits and should involve licensed wildlife professionals. Preserving mature trees and maintaining forest connectivity significantly benefits flying squirrel populations. Creating standing dead wood and snag habitat provides essential den sites. Flying squirrels serve as indicators of healthy, mature forest ecosystems. Browsewildlife in Missourifor related pages.

Species Confusion and Similar Animals

Flying squirrels are rarely confused with other Missouri animals due to their unique characteristics. Northern and Southern Flying Squirrels coexist where ranges overlap but cannot be reliably distinguished in the field. Subtle differences require expert assessment or capture examination. Sugar gliders, exotic pets that occasionally escape, are sometimes reported but never establish populations. Bats observed gliding at night differ markedly in flight pattern and never confuse observers. Flying squirrel nests are sometimes mistaken for bird nests but differ notably in construction. Small mammals like jumping mice do not glide or climb trees like flying squirrels. The combination of nocturnal activity, tree-climbing ability, small size, and gliding capacity is unique. Definitive identification requires flight observation or expert assessment of captured individuals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I observe flying squirrels in Missouri? Visit the Ozark region forests during nighttime hours, particularly around the Current River or Mark Twain National Forest. Listen for movement sounds and watch for silhouettes after sunset.

Do both species occur in Missouri? Yes, both Southern and Northern Flying Squirrels live in the state. Southern species dominate statewide, while Northern species favor northern forests.

What do flying squirrels eat? They consume acorns, hickory nuts, seeds, fungi, and insects. Diet varies seasonally with available resources in Missouri forests.

How do flying squirrels survive Missouri winters? They cache thousands of nuts in fall. They enter torpor during extreme cold and wake periodically to feed on stored caches.