Are There Flying Squirrels in Ohio?
Yes, flying squirrels are common in Ohio's wooded areas statewide. Eastern flying squirrels live throughout the state, from the Lake Erie shoreline forests to the unglaciated plateau of southeastern Ohio. These nocturnal gliders are present but rarely seen because they are active at night and well-hidden in tree cavities during the day.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated July 22, 2026.
Carolina Northern Flying Squirrel · Evan M. Raskin CC BY
Southern Flying Squirrel · Hila Taylor CC BY
Southern Flying Squirrel · Nik Hughes CC BY
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- GBIF records
Yes, flying squirrels are in Ohio. Next you'll want:
Yes, flying squirrels are common in Ohio's wooded areas statewide. Eastern flying squirrels live throughout the state, from the Lake Erie shoreline forests to the unglaciated plateau of southeastern Ohio. These nocturnal gliders are present but rarely seen because they are active at night and well-hidden in tree cavities during the day.
Where Flying Squirrels are Found in Ohio
Eastern flying squirrels occur throughout Ohio wherever mature trees provide suitable habitat. They are most abundant in the southeastern unglaciated plateau, particularly in the mixed oak and hickory forests of the Wayne National Forest and surrounding areas. The Tar Hollow State Forest and Hocking Hills region offer excellent flying squirrel habitat. Throughout northern Ohio, they inhabit woodlands in counties bordering Lake Erie and inland forests from Lucas County west to the Indiana border. The Ohio River bottomland forests in southern counties also support populations. Flying squirrels prefer forests with large trees and canopy closure, avoiding open woodlots and subdivided forests. Visit theOhio wildlife guideto learn about other forest inhabitants in the state.
Seasonal Activity and Timing
Flying squirrels remain active year-round in Ohio and do not hibernate, though they become less visible during harsh winter weather. Spring and early summer mark increased activity as breeding season progresses and young squirrels become independent. Late summer and fall see peak foraging activity as flying squirrels cache food for winter. They are strictly nocturnal, emerging at dusk and remaining active through the night. Activity increases during mild nights and decreases during severe cold, ice storms, or heavy rain. Ohio winters are moderately cold, requiring flying squirrels to access stored food and den sites. Casual observers in Ohio rarely see flying squirrels regardless of season because of their nocturnal habits. To observe them, visit woodlands after dark with a flashlight, or watch for them at dusk from late May through September in forested areas. For more on flying squirrel in Ohio, see ourOhio flying squirrel guide.
How to Identify an Eastern Flying Squirrel
Eastern flying squirrels are smaller than gray squirrels, measuring 8 to 10 inches in body length with a flattened tail that aids balance during gliding. Their fur is soft gray-brown on the back and white on the underside. The distinctive patagium, a furred membrane stretching from front to hind legs, expands when they launch from trees, allowing glides of 60 to 100 feet. Large black eyes dominate the small, delicate face, adaptations for night vision. Their ears are small and rounded. Flying squirrels have thin whiskers sensitive to air currents during gliding. Their high-pitched chirps and clicking sounds are rarely heard but distinctive. When perched on a tree trunk, they resemble gray squirrels until they move. Their gliding behavior, if observed, confirms identification immediately. You can also browseOhio wildlife.
Habitat Where Flying Squirrels Concentrate
In Ohio, flying squirrels concentrate in mature hardwood forests with high canopy closure and abundant dead trees. Oak and hickory dominated forests provide the mast seeds they prefer and cavities for nesting. The Tar Hollow State Forest in southern Ohio contains extensive suitable habitat along steep valley slopes. Hocking Hills region forests with large hemlock and mixed hardwoods support strong populations. Wayne National Forest's unmanaged sections retain old-growth characteristics essential for flying squirrels. Forests with 60 to 100 year-old trees and significant snag density are preferred. Flying squirrels avoid young plantations, open pastures, and highly fragmented woodlots. Suburban forests with scattered large trees may support small populations if canopy connectivity remains. The highest concentrations occur in roadless interior forest blocks away from edges and human disturbance. See all of ourwildlife guides.
Typical Flying Squirrel Behavior and Diet
Eastern flying squirrels are highly social and often share winter dens with up to 20 other flying squirrels for warmth. They build nests of shredded bark and leaves in tree cavities or as leaf nests in branches. These squirrels are omnivorous, feeding primarily on seeds from oak, hickory, and pine trees when available. They also eat insects, fungi, bird eggs, and tree buds. Mating occurs in late winter and spring, with females producing one or two litters of two to three young annually. Young are born hairless and blind, remaining in the nest for about six weeks. Flying squirrels are active every night, foraging and patrolling their territories. They cache acorns and nuts in scattered locations, creating seed banks that aid forest regeneration. Ohio forests benefit from flying squirrel seed dispersal activities.
Coexistence and Safety
Flying squirrels are harmless to humans and pose no threat to health or property. They are shy and actively avoid human contact, remaining hidden during the day and emerging only after dark. Flying squirrels rarely enter homes and do not cause damage to structures or gardens. They are protected under Ohio Division of Wildlife regulations, and it is illegal to trap, kill, or harm them. If a flying squirrel enters an attic, contact a licensed wildlife removal service to exclude it humanely. Flying squirrels help forests by dispersing seeds and controlling insect populations. They are important food for owls and other predators in Ohio's ecosystems. Viewing flying squirrels responsibly means observing them in natural settings without disturbance. Learn more about wildlife sharing Ohio forests by visiting theOhio wildlife hub.
Species Often Mistaken for Flying Squirrels
Eastern flying squirrels may be confused with eastern gray squirrels and fox squirrels, though key differences separate them. Gray squirrels are larger, lack the gliding membrane, and are diurnal active during the day. Fox squirrels are the largest tree squirrel in Ohio, with russet and gray coloring, and remain active by day. Red squirrels are smaller than flying squirrels but also lack the patagium and are active during daytime. The gliding membrane present only in flying squirrels is the most reliable identification feature. Nocturnal activity distinguishes flying squirrels from all other Ohio tree squirrels. Flying squirrel tails are flattened, while other squirrel tails are bushier. Flying squirrels' small size and large eyes reflect their nocturnal adaptations. In daylight, you will not see flying squirrels in Ohio, eliminating confusion with diurnal species.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ohio Flying Squirrels
Q: Can I see flying squirrels in my Ohio neighborhood? A: Flying squirrels inhabit forested areas throughout Ohio, but suburban sightings are uncommon due to habitat loss and their nocturnal nature. Properties with mature trees and forest connectivity offer the best chances. Q: Are flying squirrels harmful to homes or pets? A: No. Flying squirrels are harmless and avoid human contact. They do not damage homes or prey on pets. Q: What should I do if I find an injured flying squirrel? A: Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator in Ohio. The state Division of Wildlife can direct you to services. Do not attempt to handle the animal yourself. Q: Where is the best place to observe flying squirrels in Ohio? A: Hocking Hills State Park, Tar Hollow State Forest, and Wayne National Forest offer the highest probability of encounters. VisitOhio wildlife resourcesfor more information and other forest animals.
Plan your flying squirrel sighting in Ohio
459 verified flying squirrel records have been logged in Ohio, most recently in 2026. See the GBIF records.
Where to look in Ohio
- Cuyahoga Valley National Park · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
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- Perry's Victory & International Peace Memorial · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument · Find hotels
- Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park · Find hotels
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