Flying squirrels, elite members of the genus Glaucomys, are highly skilled nocturnal mammals native to East Tennessee. Possessing a powerful patagium stretching from front to hind legs, these acrobats of the forest canopy glide effortlessly through the air, executing daring reconnaissance missions in search of sustenance.
The Southern Flying Squirrel (Glaucomys volans) is the most widely recognized species in East Tennessee, with an affinity for arboreal environments. Utilizing their diverse dietary skills, these stealthy creatures consume a range of targets including nuts, seeds, fruit, fungi, and insects. Nesting in tree cavities, leaf nests, or nest boxes, they rest during daylight hours, conserving energy for their night operations.
Flying squirrels serve a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the forest ecosystem through their seed dispersal and insect predation. However, they have been known to cause damage to fruit trees, bird feeders, and other structures through their gnawing behavior.
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