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Pteromys volans orii Japanese Dwarf Flying Squirrel At Dusk

This is a Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii), a sub-species of Siberian flying squirrel. Known locally as ezo-momonga, this sub-species is found only in Hokkaido, Japan. It is primarily nocturnal. This indiividual has just emerged from its nest at dusk, and is taking a moment before heading out for a night of foraging. From this perspective, it is possible to see how the squirrel grasps and maintains a grip on delicate branches. Mature females measure up to 15cm, males up to 18cm (not including tail). These animals weigh up to 120g and are capable of gliding considerable distances. During flight, they use their patagia (membranes of skin between their forelimbs and hind limbs) and tails (10-12cm) to achieve lift, directional control and maneuvering capability. One study in Japan recorded a maximum glide distance exceeding 49m, though most flights fell into the 10m to 20m range.

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Japan, Flying Squirrels
This is a Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii), a sub-species of Siberian flying squirrel. Known locally as ezo-momonga, this sub-species is found only in Hokkaido, Japan. It is primarily nocturnal. This indiividual has just emerged from its nest at dusk, and is taking a moment before heading out for a night of foraging. From this perspective, it is possible to see how the squirrel grasps and maintains a grip on delicate branches. Mature females measure up to 15cm, males up to 18cm (not including tail). These animals weigh up to 120g and are capable of gliding considerable distances. During flight, they use their patagia (membranes of skin between their forelimbs and hind limbs) and tails (10-12cm) to achieve lift, directional control and maneuvering capability. One study in Japan recorded a maximum glide distance exceeding 49m, though most flights fell into the 10m to 20m range.
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