Editor’s Note: The pair of juvenile flying squirrels is part of the CROW CAW (Case A Week) series, which tells the stories of the patients at the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife on Sanibel Island, the dangers they face, and how we can help protect all of our wildlife. Read previous cases here.
Two juvenile southern flying squirrels (25-4367 and 25-4368) were brought to the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) after being found near a construction site in Estero. Their exams had no significant findings, and both squirrels were clinically healthy. When patients arrive at CROW and the veterinarians don’t find anything wrong, they may classify the patients as abducted.
Abductions occur when animals are brought to the clinic that don’t necessarily need to be. They often happen to young animals because people may assume that if an animal is alone, it needs help. However, young animals are usually still receiving care even if the parents aren’t immediately seen.
Unless there is a clear problem, CROW recommends leaving the animal where it is. If you’re unsure, please call the CROW rescue hotline at 239-472-3644 extension #222. CROW’s wildlife first responders will assess the situation and determine whether the animal needs help. Visit crowclinic.org/found-animal/ for more information.
When abductions do occur to young animals, they will be released if they’re old enough to survive on their own or if they can be reunited with a parent. If not, as in these squirrels’ case, they will be raised until they are fully independent and released.
Southern flying squirrels are native to North America and can be found throughout the Eastern United States, including a sizeable population in Florida. Despite their names, flying squirrels don’t fly; they glide.
These squirrels have a thin layer of skin between their fore and hind limbs, called the patagium. When it’s stretched taut, this membrane acts like a parachute and allows them to glide between the trees they inhabit.
A cartilage projection from their wrists also plays a crucial role by stabilizing and adjusting the angle of their patagium. Their tails are also much flatter than their bushy-tailed relatives, and it helps them steer on their “flights” that can reach lengths of over 200 feet.
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