Description of Habitat:
How Much Rainfall: Southern flying squirrels thrive in areas with moderate to high rainfall, typically ranging from 30 to 60 inches (76 to 152 cm) per year.
Plants: They inhabit forests with a variety of trees such as oaks, hickories, beech, and maple, which provide food and nesting sites.
Animals: Share their habitat with other wildlife like owls, hawks, raccoons, and other small mammals.
Temperature: Prefer temperate climates with average temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C).
Terrain: Live in forested areas with plenty of tree cover, often in dense, mature forests with complex canopy structures.
Distribution:
Continents Found: Native to North America, predominantly found in the eastern United States and parts of southeastern Canada.
Invasive Status: Not generally considered invasive but may expand its range due to changes in climate and habitat availability.
Diet:
What Exactly Does It Eat: Feeds on a variety of foods including nuts, seeds, fruits, fungi, insects, and bird eggs.
How Often Does It Eat: Typically forages for food nightly, caching surplus food for the winter months.
How Does It Get Its Food: Uses its gliding ability to move from tree to tree, foraging along the way.
Any Special Foods: Particularly fond of acorns and hickory nuts, which they store in large quantities.