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  • This is a species of flying squirrel called Ezo Momonga in Japanese (Pteromys volans orii). It is a sub-species of Siberian flying squirrels that is found on the island of Hokkaido in Japan. These squirrels are primarily nocturnal and usually shy, though the squirrels can occasionally be seen during the day. They prefer to take up residence in holes made by woodpeckers. This individual has just emerged from its hole in a Sakhalin fir tree  (Abies sachalinensis) at dusk, preparing for a night of foraging. Their diet primarily comprises leaves, seeds, cones, buds, sprouts, nuts and berries. This species does not hibernate.
    ezo-momonga-pteromys-volans-orii-fly...tif
  • This is a species of flying squirrel called Ezo Momonga in Japanese (Pteromys volans orii). It is a sub-species of Siberian flying squirrels that is found on the island of Hokkaido in Japan. These squirrels are primarily nocturnal and usually shy, though the squirrels can occasionally be seen during the day. They prefer to take up residence in holes made by woodpeckers. Their diet primarily comprises leaves, seeds, cones, buds, sprouts, nuts and berries. Here, the momonga is eating buds of a Japanese elm tree (Ulmus davidiana var. japonica), known as harunire in Japanese. This species does not hibernate.
    ezo-momonga-pteromys-volans-orii-fly...tif
  • This is a species of flying squirrel called Ezo Momonga in Japanese (Pteromys volans orii). It is a sub-species of Siberian flying squirrels that is found on the island of Hokkaido in Japan. These squirrels are primarily nocturnal and usually shy, though the squirrels can occasionally be seen during the day. They prefer to take up residence in holes made by woodpeckers. Their diet primarily comprises leaves, seeds, cones, buds, sprouts, nuts and berries. This individual paused in this position for a few moments after emerging one winter evening from its hole in a Sakhalin fir tree (Abies sachalinensis), known as todomatsu in Japanese. This species does not hibernate.
    ezo-momonga-pteromys-volans-orii-fly...tif
  • This is a species of flying squirrel called Ezo Momonga in Japanese (Pteromys volans orii). It is a sub-species of Siberian flying squirrels that is found on the island of Hokkaido in Japan. These squirrels are primarily nocturnal and usually shy, though the squirrels can occasionally be seen during the day. They prefer to take up residence in holes made by woodpeckers. Their diet primarily comprises leaves, seeds, cones, buds, sprouts, nuts and berries. This individual is nibbling on the soft parts of a Sakhalin fir tree (Abies sachalinensis), known as todomatsu in Japanese. This species does not hibernate.
    ezo-momonga-pteromys-volans-orii-fly...tif
  • This is a species of flying squirrel called Ezo Momonga in Japanese (Pteromys volans orii). It is a sub-species of Siberian flying squirrels that is found on the island of Hokkaido in Japan. These squirrels are primarily nocturnal and usually shy, though the squirrels can occasionally be seen during the day. They prefer to take up residence in holes made by woodpeckers, as seen here. This individual is just emerging from a hole in a Sakhalin fir tree (Abies sachalinensis) at dusk, in preparation for a night of foraging. These small animals are particularly wary when they emerge, as they must be on the lookout for predators like owls and weasels. Their diet primarily comprises leaves, seeds, cones, buds, sprouts, nuts and berries. This species does not hibernate.
    ezo-momonga-pteromys-volans-orii-fly...tif
  • This is a species of flying squirrel called Ezo Momonga in Japanese (Pteromys volans orii). It is a sub-species of Siberian flying squirrels that is found on the island of Hokkaido in Japan. These squirrels are primarily nocturnal and usually shy, though the squirrels can occasionally be seen during the day. They prefer to take up residence in holes made by woodpeckers. This individual has just emerged from its hole in a Sakhalin fir tree  (Abies sachalinensis) at dusk, preparing for a night of foraging. Their diet primarily comprises leaves, seeds, cones, buds, sprouts, nuts and berries. This species does not hibernate.
    ezo-momonga-pteromys-volans-orii-fly...tif
  • This is a male Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii). This sub-species of Siberian flying squirrel, found only in Hokkaido, Japan and known locally as ezo-momonga, is primarily nocturnal. This imdividual was active during the day because it was competing for the attention of a female in oestrous. The squirrel took a moment here to scratch his back.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-male-...tif
  • This is a male Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii), looking out from his nest. This sub-species of Siberian flying squirrel, found only in Hokkaido, Japan and known locally as ezo-momonga, is primarily nocturnal. This male was active during the day because it was competing for the attention of a female in oestrous.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-male-...tif
  • This is a Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii), a sub-species of Siberian flying squirrel. getting ready to leave its nest to set out for a night of foraging. Known locally as ezo-momonga, this sub-species is found only in Hokkaido, Japan. It is primarily nocturnal. 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.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-at-du...tif
  • This is a male Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii). This sub-species of Siberian flying squirrel, found only in Hokkaido, Japan and known locally as ezo-momonga, is primarily nocturnal. This imdividual was active during the day because it was competing for the attention of a female in oestrous.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-male-...tif
  • This is a Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii) peeking out from its nest in the trunk of a tree. Checking the surroundings in this manner prior to emerging at dusk for a night of foraging is common behaviour. Found only in Hokkaido, Japan, these animals prefer small holes to their nests, as this provides a measure of protection from predators like owls and martens. This particular nest entrance is also partially covered by a large white fungus, which obscures it from view. This animal is a sub-species of Siberian flying squirrel and is known locally as ezo-momonga.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-at-du...tif
  • This is a male Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii). This sub-species of Siberian flying squirrel, found only in Hokkaido, Japan and known locally as ezo-momonga, is primarily nocturnal. This male was active during the day because it was competing for the attention of a female in oestrous.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-male-...tif
  • This is a male Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii). This sub-species of Siberian flying squirrel, found only in Hokkaido, Japan and known locally as ezo-momonga, is primarily nocturnal. This imdividual was active during the day because it was competing for the attention of a female in oestrous.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-male-...tif
  • 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. 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. This individual has just emerged shortly after sunset from its nest, a cavity in the tree pictured. After preening for a bit, the flying squirrel ascended into the canopy to forage for the night. While these squirrels are known to nest in a number of tree species, they appear to prefer Sakhalin fir trees (Abies sachalinensis).
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-at-du...tif
  • This is a male Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii). This sub-species of Siberian flying squirrel, found only in Hokkaido, Japan and known locally as ezo-momonga, is primarily nocturnal. This imdividual was active during the day because it was competing for the attention of a female in oestrous.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-male-...tif
  • This is a Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii), a sub-species of Siberian flying squirrel, peeking out from its nest before emerging for a night of foraging. Known locally as ezo-momonga, this sub-species is found only in Hokkaido, Japan. It is primarily nocturnal. 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.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-at-du...tif
  • This is a Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii) taking a moment to gather itself after emerging from its nest to head out for a night of foraging. Known locally as ezo-momonga, this sub-species of Siberian flying squirrel is found only in Hokkaido, Japan. It is primarily nocturnal. 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.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-at-du...tif
  • This is a male Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii). This sub-species of Siberian flying squirrel, found only in Hokkaido, Japan and known locally as ezo-momonga, is primarily nocturnal. This imdividual was active during the day because it was competing for the attention of a female in oestrous.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-male-...tif
  • This is a male Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii). This sub-species of Siberian flying squirrel, found only in Hokkaido, Japan and known locally as ezo-momonga, is primarily nocturnal. This imdividual was active during the day because it was competing for the attention of a female in oestrous.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-male-...tif
  • This is a male Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii). This sub-species of Siberian flying squirrel, found only in Hokkaido, Japan and known locally as ezo-momonga, is primarily nocturnal. This imdividual was active during the day because it was competing for the attention of a female in oestrous. The squirrel paused for a moment to groom himself.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-male-...tif
  • This is a male Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii). This sub-species of Siberian flying squirrel, found only in Hokkaido, Japan and known locally as ezo-momonga, is primarily nocturnal. This imdividual was active during the day because it was competing for the attention of a female in oestrous. The squirrel’s paddle-like tail is visible from this angle, flopped over its back. This animal uses its tail somewhat like a rudder during flight, helping to adjust direction.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-male-...tif
  • 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.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-at-du...tif
  • Pictured here is a pair of a Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii), one peeking out from the nest, and another perched on a branch above. These squirrels are preparing for a night of foraging, having emerged shortly after sunset. Known locally as ezo-momonga, this sub-species is a  sub-species of Siberian flying squirrel and is found only in Hokkaido, Japan. It is primarily nocturnal. 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.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrels-at-d...tif
  • This is a male Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii) sitting on a branch. This sub-species of Siberian flying squirrel, found only in Hokkaido, Japan and known locally as ezo-momonga, is primarily nocturnal. This imdividual was active during the day because it was competing for the attention of a female in oestrous.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-male-...tif
  • This is a Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii), gliding from the top of one tree to another. Known locally as ezo-momonga, this sub-species of Siberian flying squirrel is found only in Hokkaido, Japan. 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. Although these animals are primarily nocturnal, they sometimes emerge during the day. Usually this is for brief durations to urinate or defecate. In this instance, this particular individual was one of two males competing for the right to mate with a female. Such reproduction-related competition sometimes takes place during daylight hours.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-airbo...tif
  • This is a male Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii). This sub-species of Siberian flying squirrel, found only in Hokkaido, Japan and known locally as ezo-momonga, is primarily nocturnal. This imdividual was active during the day because it was competing for the attention of a female in oestrous.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-20200...tif
  • This is a Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii), a sub-species of Siberian flying squirrel, emerging from its nest at dusk to set out for a night of foraging. Known locally as ezo-momonga, this sub-species is found only in Hokkaido, Japan. It is primarily nocturnal. 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.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-at-du...tif
  • This is a male Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii). This sub-species of Siberian flying squirrel, found only in Hokkaido, Japan and known locally as ezo-momonga, is primarily nocturnal. This imdividual was active during the day because it was competing for the attention of a female in oestrous.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-20200...tif
  • This is a male Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii). This sub-species of Siberian flying squirrel, found only in Hokkaido, Japan and known locally as ezo-momonga, is primarily nocturnal. This male was active during the day because it was competing for the attention of a female in oestrous.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-male-...tif
  • This is a male Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii). This sub-species of Siberian flying squirrel, found only in Hokkaido, Japan and known locally as ezo-momonga, is primarily nocturnal. This male was active during the day because it was competing for the attention of a female in oestrous.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-male-...tif
  • This is a male Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii). This sub-species of Siberian flying squirrel, found only in Hokkaido, Japan and known locally as ezo-momonga, is primarily nocturnal. This male was active during the day because it was competing for the attention of a female in oestrous.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-male-...tif
  • This is a male Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii). This sub-species of Siberian flying squirrel, found only in Hokkaido, Japan and known locally as ezo-momonga, is primarily nocturnal. This male was active during the day because it was competing for the attention of a female in oestrous.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-male-...tif
  • This is a male Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii). This sub-species of Siberian flying squirrel, found only in Hokkaido, Japan and known locally as ezo-momonga, is primarily nocturnal. This male was active during the day because it was competing for the attention of a female in oestrous.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-male-...tif
  • This is a male Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii). This sub-species of Siberian flying squirrel, found only in Hokkaido, Japan and known locally as ezo-momonga, is primarily nocturnal. This imdividual was active during the day because it was competing for the attention of a female in oestrous.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-male-...tif
  • This is a Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii), a sub-species of Siberian flying squirrel. that has just emerged from its nest before setting out for a night of foraging. Known locally as ezo-momonga, this sub-species is found only in Hokkaido, Japan. It is primarily nocturnal. 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.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-at-du...tif
  • This Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii) is just emerging from its nest in the trunk of a tree at dusk to prepare for a night of foraging. Found only in Hokkaido, Japan, these animals prefer small holes to their nests, as this provides a measure of protection from predators like owls and martens. This particular nest entrance is also partially covered by a large white fungus, which obscures it from view. This animal is a sub-species of Siberian flying squirrel and is known locally as ezo-momonga.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-emerg...tif
  • 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. 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. This individual has just emerged shortly after sunset from its nest, a cavity in the tree pictured. After preening for a bit, the flying squirrel ascended into the canopy to forage for the night. While these squirrels are known to nest in a number of tree species, they appear to prefer Sakhalin fir trees (Abies sachalinensis).
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-ptero...tif
  • This is a pair of Japanese dwarf flying squirrels (Pteromys volans orii) engaged in copulation. This is an extended process spanning many hours, during which the male often needs to fend off rivals while engaging in repeated bouts of copulation. As shown here, the female can, and often does, put up some measure of resistance, occasionally dislodging the male completely. The male’s penis is visible.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrels-mati...tif
  • This is a Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel gliding through the forest in the early morning.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This is a Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel gliding through the forest.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This is a Pteromys volans orii Japanese dwarf flying squirrel gliding across the top of the tree canopy after sunset. The moon is visible, six days prior to being full. This individual was part of a ruckus of reproductive season activity stretching over many hours that involved two females and three males.
    japanese-flying-squirrel-pteromys-vo...tif
  • This is a male Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel attempting to enter a nest with a female inside during reproductive season. This male made repeated attempts to enter, but was stopped mid-way each time as shown here, then rejected.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This is a Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel consuming male catkins from an Erman's birch tree (Betula ermanii).
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This is a Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel perched on a small branch moments after it emerged from its nest after sunset to forage at night.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This is a Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel bathed in the cool light of an early winter morning. These animals are normally nocturnal.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This is a Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii) flying through the forest on a cold winter day. Usually nocturnal, these animals sometimes become active in the day during reproductive season.
    japanese-flying-squirrel-pteromys-vo...tif
  • This is a male Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel looking into the entrance of a nest with a female inside. During reproductive season, males often do this in hopes of find receptive females. In many instances, females approaching estrus are already accompanied by males. Conflicts between males often ensue.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This is a pair of Japanese dwarf flying squirrels (Pteromys volans orii), photographed during breeding season. The individual higher up on the tree is a female in oestrus. In the first two images in this sequence of three, the male approaches the female from behind to attempt copulation. In the third image, the female spins around to indicate in no uncertain terms that she is not ready. The pair’s nest is in the crack in the tree.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrels-copu...tif
  • When a Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii) emerges from its nest at dusk, one of the first orders of business is often to relieve itself. The individual pictured here is defecating (pellets visible in the appropriate location) while grasping a small twig for stability. Flying squirrel droppings are used in traditional Chinese herbal medicine for ailments related to blood circulation and abdominal pain. The droppings are known as Wu Ling Zhi.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-defec...tif
  • This Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel has carried a few sticks of Japanese elm (Ulmus davidiana var. japonica) back to its nest at the end of foraging to enjoy a takeaway meal before going inside.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This is a female Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel feasting on a branch that she cut from a nearby Sakhalin fir tree (Abies sachalinensis).
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This is a Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel consuming snow for moisture. This behavior seems to take place most often after foraging.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This is a Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel consuming snow for moisture after an extended period of foraging.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • Just before a Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel lands on a tree, the animals folds its wings inward and stretches its limbs toward the targeted tree. This serves to slow the animal's approach and also to prepare the animal to be able to move immediately upon landing.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • While I was photographing a pair of Pteromys volans orii flying squirrels perched on a branch about 10m directly overhead, the male took aim and peed on me. Fortunately I have quick reactions.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • Pictured here are two male Pteromys volans orii flying squirrels. The one inside the tree has just peeked out from the nest which he has occupied with a female that has gone into estrus. Caught sneaking up to try to enter the nest to compete for the female, the male on the tree has just jumped away to avoid a confrontation.
    japanese-flying-squirrel-pteromys-vo...tif
  • This is a male Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel gliding through the canopy in mid-afternoon. This species is primarily nocturnal. During the peak of the reproductive season, they can become active during the day when there is competition among males for a female in estrus, as was the case here.
    japanese-flying-squirrel-pteromys-vo...tif
  • This is a pair of Pteromys volans orii flying squirrels mating. Copulation occurs multiple times over an extended period of time. This can happen inside the nest or outside, as shown here. Mating can take place in the day time or at night.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This is a male Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel perched in a safe location high up in the canopy. Behind this knot in the tree was the nest. The squirrel was positioned at the top entrance to the nest, which gave him the ideal vantage point from which to survey the surroundings and keep a lookout for two rival males that were attempting to get the attention of the female inside. Many battles ensued, with much chasing and lots of flying.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This is a Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii) that has just come out from its nest., entrance visible to left and above the animal’s head. These flying squirrels are nocturnal, but occasionally emerge during daylight hours.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-20200...tif
  • This Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel is enjoying a meal of male catkins from an Erman's birch tree (Betula ermanii).
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • The pair of Pteromys volans orii flying squirrels in the center of the photo comprise a male (left, facing camera) and female (right). The female is in estrus. At this point, the pair had copulated several times, but also attracted the attention of rival males, like the one above, which was poised to pounce in an attempt to dislodge the primary male.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This Japanese flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii) is perched on a comfortable, safe location high above the ground, where it is eating one of its favorite foods, the buds of a Japanese elm tree (Ulmus davidiana var. japonica). Normally nocturnal, these squirrels are sometimes active in the early hours of daylight.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • When female Pteromys volans orii squirrels go into estrus, there is usually a primary male with her. He fends off challengers and does his best to monopolize copulation opportunities. Females will mate with other males when the opportunity arises however. Here, the female has snuck out to copulate with another male. The primary male has just realized what is happening and has rushed out of the den to confront the interloper.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This is a Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel flying through trees.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel has just started to consume male catkins from an Erman's birch tree (Betula ermanii).
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This is a Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel emerging from a hideaway at the base of a tall tree. This individual was just digging its way out after snowfall had accumulated and blocked the entrance.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • The frustrating moment when a Pteromys orii volans flying squirrel passed directly over my head from behind. I spun around and pressed the shutter on instinct from waist height as the squirrel flew past mere centimeters above my head.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This male and female Pteromys volans orii flying squirrels have paired up for the reproductive season. They had just finished foraging for food high in the canopy and were sitting together like this during light snow. The pair mated a few days after this photograph was taken. The male is on the right, female left.
    japanese-flying-squirrel-pteromys-vo...tif
  • This is a Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel peeking out from its nest, just before emerging for an evening of foraging in the treetops.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This is a Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel enjoying one of its favorite meals. The animals is eating male catkins of an Alnus japonicus alder tree.
    pteromys-volans-orii-eating-alnus-ja...tif
  • This is a Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel gliding through the forest early in the morning.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This is a Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel gliding through the forest early one winter morning.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This is a Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel peeking out from the tiny entrance to its nest. These squirrels often do this to check their surroundings prior to emerging.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This is a Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel enjoying an early morning scratch.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This is a Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel making its final approach back to the nest after foraging. The animal blends in perfectly with its environment, a snow-covered forest. The entrance to the nest is a narrow crack in the Erman's birch (Betula ermanii) tree.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This is an unusual behavior. This Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel had stashed food in an unused bird's nest at some point. On this overcast day, the squirrel plucked out and consumed male catkins of an Erman's birch (Betula ermanii), one after another, until the food stash was exhausted.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This is a pair of Pteromys volans orii flying squirrels that have just emerged from their nest early in the morning during the winter reproductive season. The individual on the left is female, right male. After preening together, the pair ascended into the canopy to forage. They mated 10 days after this photo was taken.
    japanese-flying-squirrel-pteromys-vo...tif
  • This is a Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel male grooming itself after emerging from his nest on an early winter morning. This male shared the nest with a female. The pair mated 10 days after this photo was taken.
    japanese-flying-squirrel-pteromys-vo...tif
  • This is a Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel male grooming itself after emerging from his nest on an early winter morning. This male shared the nest with a female. The pair mated 10 days after this photo was taken.
    japanese-flying-squirrel-pteromys-vo...tif
  • This is a Pteromys volans orii Japanese dwarf flying squirrel male perched at the top entrance to a nest. On this day, he was guarding a female inside the nest. She was in estrus, and the male was warding off other males. This pair mated several times throughout the day, but the female also mated with another male while this one was unaware. This photo is one in a series of three which illustrate the height of the nest.
    japanese-flying-squirrel-pteromys-vo...tif
  • This is a Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel resting in a secure spot in the late afternoon.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • These four Pteromys volans orii flying squirrels emerged from a single nest at the same time, just before foraging. Simultaneous appearances like this are relatively uncommon.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • Individual Pteromys volans flying squirrels seem to have favored perches such as this. This individual visited this spot often, sometimes just to sit, sometimes to eat, often as a stopover before gliding to other trees to forage.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This Japanese flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii) has just emerged from its nest during daylight hours. Although these animals are nocturnal, they sometimes come out during the day.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This is a Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel peeking out from its den in a Sakhalin fir tree (Abies sachalinensis) in the soft light of the early winter morning.
    japanese-flying-squirrel-pteromys-vo...tif
  • This is a male Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel making his appearance in the late afternoon, just before heading up into the treetops to forage.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel is enjoying a meal of male catkins from an Erman's birch tree (Betula ermanii).
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This is a Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel leaning down to consume snow for moisture.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This is a Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel flying directly overhead.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This is a Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel on its final approach to the nest. The squirrel has dived down from high elevation and swooped upward in an arc, bringing it to this point, which is about 1.5m from the entrance to its nest. The animal's body is flared open in order to ascend and decelerate for the final approach. Its belly is full from foraging in the treetops.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This is a male Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel standing guard at the entrance of a nest. Inside is a female that has entered estrus. This has attracted the attention of another male. At this point, the interloper male had made numerous attempts to mate with the female, hence the protective position of this male. The two males faced off a number of times. Interlopers are sometimes successful in mating with females while the primary male is unaware or otherwise occupied.
    japanese-flying-squirrel-pteromys-vo...tif
  • This is a pair of Pteromys volans orii flying squirrels that have just emerged from their nest early in the morning during the winter reproductive season. The individual on the left is female, right male. After preening together, the pair ascended into the canopy to forage. They mated 10 days after this photo was taken.
    japanese-flying-squirrel-pteromys-vo...tif
  • This is a pair of Japanese dwarf flying squirrels (Pteromys volans orii). The one in front is male. The one peeking out from behind is female. They are situated at the top entrance to their nest, caressed by warm light from the setting winter sun. This pair mated several times throughout the day. There was another male in the area, a challenger. The female mated with the other male as well, when this one was not looking.
    japanese-flying-squirrel-pteromys-vo...tif
  • This is a pair of Japanese dwarf flying squirrels (Pteromys volans orii) engaged in copulation. This is an extended process spanning many hours, during which the male often needs to fend off rivals while engaging in repeated bouts of copulation.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrels-mati...tif
  • This is a pair of Japanese dwarf flying squirrels (Pteromys volans orii) engaged in copulation. This is an extended process spanning many hours, during which the male often needs to fend off rivals while engaging in repeated bouts of copulation.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrels-mati...tif
  • This is a male Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel sitting in a favorite spot on a sunny day, looking down upon his surroundings.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • Depicted here is a pair of Pteromys volans orii flying squirrels sharing a nest high up in the canopy. The larger individual on the left is female, the other male. During the peak of reproductive season, males and females often pair up like this. The bonds are not permanent though, and fidelity is not certain. It is not unusual for females to mate with more than one male.
    pteromys-volans-orii-pair-japan-2021...tif
  • This is a pair of Japanese dwarf flying squirrels (Pteromys volans orii) engaged in copulation. The crack in the middle of the tree is the entrance to their nest.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-copul...tif
  • This is a Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii) shaking itself off at the entrance of its nest.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-20200...tif
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Tony Wu Underwater Photography

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