Pteromys – Old World flying squirrel

These squirrels are specially adapted to life on treetops, where they use their unique gliding abilities to travel through the forest canopy. Unlike regular squirrels, Pteromys species have a thin, furry membrane called the patagium that stretches from their wrists to their ankles, allowing them to glide impressively between trees.

These squirrels are nocturnal creatures, meaning they are most active at night. Their large, round eyes are specially adapted for excellent night vision, allowing them to navigate the forest under the cover of darkness.
These flying squirrels are skilled foragers with a diet mainly consisting of leaves, nuts, seeds, and tree bark. In the colder months, they rely on stored food to survive when fresh vegetation is scarce. Because of their ability to glide, they can access food sources spread out across large areas without expending much energy climbing up and down trees. This ability also plays an important role in seed dispersal, making Pteromys an essential part of their forest ecosystems.

One well-known species within this genus is the Siberian flying squirrel (Pteromys volans), which ranges across northern Europe and Asia, from Scandinavia to Japan. It is the only flying squirrel species found in Europe, where it inhabits old-growth forests with plenty of mature trees for nesting and feeding. The Siberian flying squirrel is especially loved for its cute appearance, with big eyes and fluffy tails that make it look almost cartoonish. Despite its charming looks, the species faces threats in some areas due to deforestation and habitat fragmentation, particularly in regions where forests are cleared for agriculture or logging.