The Flying Squirrel ( Scuiridae )

The amazing animal hoax- the flying squirrel! This squirrel hardly "flies". What the "flying" squirrel does is leap from treetops, and as it falls, opens itself up like a parachute, slowing its fall and allowing it to land safely. Its tail acts as the controller and emergency brake for the squirrel, which has been known to fall from over 165 foot high trees. Kids, don't try this at home!

The flying squirrel eats mostly nuts, fruits, and small insects. It builds its nest inside dried out coconut shells. There is usually 2-4 young in one litter, and the lifespan is usually 11-13 years, unless they are caught by a bird or animal of prey. The mating season for these squirrels is from February to March. When the babies are born, they have no fur except whiskers, and the internal organs are visible through the skin. This makes their sex easy to determine.