Northern Flying Squirrels
Glaucomys sabrinus
Appearance
Range & Habitat
Reciprocal Relationships
Northern flying squirrels act as nature’s gardeners in the forest. These animals help plants grow by dispersing fungi spores that help new mushrooms, like truffles, to grow. These truffles go on to connect with plant roots, assisting in nutrient absorption.
These squirrels need large decaying trees to nest and survive. While the northern flying squirrel is eaten by coyotes, foxes, owls, and hawks, the most pressing threats are clear-cutting and logging operations in coniferous forests. We can all help protect this unique species by protecting old-growth forests!