Rodent

Southern Flying Squirrel

Glaucomys volans

Moderate Risk

Biology

Glaucomys volans is a small nocturnal squirrel, 20–25 cm total length, with large dark eyes, a flattened tail, and a loose patagium of skin stretching from wrist to ankle that allows gliding between trees.

Behaviour

Southern flying squirrels are highly social; multiple animals may share an attic roost. They are nocturnal and glide between trees and structures. They feed on nuts, seeds, fungi, insects, and bird eggs.

Habits

Attic colonies produce scratching and chattering sounds at night, stains from urine, gnawed wiring, and stored food caches. They enter through small gaps near rooflines, fascia, and vents, especially where trees touch the roof.

Control methods

1Trim tree branches back at least 6 feet from the roof
2Seal roof gaps, vents, and fascia holes with rodent-proof mesh
3Install one-way exits over active entry holes
4Remove bird feeders and secure outdoor food sources
5Use live traps or exclusion traps in attics
6Disinfect and repair wiring damage after eviction

Tailored to Southern Flying Squirrel

IPM Procedure Checklist

View full procedure

Step 1

Inspection

Locate runways, droppings, rub marks and gnaw damage
Identify entry points (gaps ≥6 mm) and harborage
Place tracking patches or non-toxic monitors

Step 2

Identification

Confirm Southern Flying Squirrel (Glaucomys volans) — not a look-alike
Note life stage and risk level: Moderate
Capture clear photos and samples for the record

Step 3

Action Thresholds

Trigger action when monitor counts trend up
Re-evaluate weekly during active season
Document trigger criteria in the IPM plan

Step 4

Prevention

Exclude with steel wool, hardware cloth and door sweeps
Trim vegetation 0.5 m from structure; clear debris
Secure trash, pet food and stored grain

Step 5

Control Methods

Trim tree branches back at least 6 feet from the roof
Seal roof gaps, vents, and fascia holes with rodent-proof mesh
Install one-way exits over active entry holes
Remove bird feeders and secure outdoor food sources

Step 6

Monitoring & Evaluation

Service monitors on schedule and trend captures
Re-inspect for Southern Flying Squirrel activity at follow-up
Adjust tactics based on data; report findings to client