Meet a fascinating and adorable creature that lives in the forests of Japan. Found mainly on the islands of Honshu and Kyushu, this tiny mammal spends most of its life high in the treetops. It is famous for its large, round eyes, soft fur, and ability to glide gracefully between trees, making it look like something out of a fairy tale. This squirrel is quite small, with a bushy tail that helps it steer as it glides. Its thick, silvery-gray fur keeps it warm during the cold winters and blends perfectly with the bark of trees, providing excellent camouflage.

The most remarkable feature of the Japanese dwarf flying squirrel is the membrane of skin, called the patagium, that stretches from its wrists to its ankles. This special adaptation allows the squirrel to glide from tree to tree, covering distances of up to 100 meters in a single leap. It can use the patagium to catch the air by spreading its legs and flattening its body, almost like a parachute. This gliding ability not only helps the squirrel escape predators but also allows it to move efficiently through the forest canopy in search of food.

Japanese dwarf flying squirrels are nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night. Their large eyes are perfectly adapted for seeing in the dark, helping them navigate the dense forest under the moonlight. During the day, they rest in tree cavities or nests made of moss, leaves, and bark. At night, they come out to feed on a diet of leaves, bark, buds, and seeds. They are especially fond of pine seeds and have been observed storing them for the winter months when food is scarce.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Japan

LC

2016

Honshu, Kyushu