Flying squirrel hunting presents unique challenges for sportsmen due to the nocturnal nature of these elusive creatures. Unlike their daytime counterparts, flying squirrels are active at night and possess specialized adaptations that allow them to glide between trees.

It’s important to note that hunting flying squirrels is illegal in many states, as they are often protected species. For example, in Pennsylvania, the Northern Flying squirrel is listed as a priority species in the state’s Wildlife Action Plan, and harming them can result in severe penalties. Similarly, in Kentucky, while gray and fox squirrels may be hunted, flying squirrels are off-limits.

For those interested in observing these fascinating animals, learning about their habits and habitats can be rewarding. Flying squirrels prefer deciduous or mixed forests, making their nests in tree hollows. They are omnivorous, consuming a diet of nuts, seeds, fruits, and insects. Their ability to glide up to 60 feet between trees, with some instances of 300-foot glides recorded, makes them a marvel of nature.

Flying Squirrel Basics

Flying squirrels are unique nocturnal rodents with remarkable gliding abilities. These agile creatures possess distinct physical features and behaviors that set them apart from other squirrel species.

Species Overview

Two flying squirrel species are native to North America: the northern flying squirrel (Glaucomys sabrinus) and the southern flying squirrel (Glaucomys volans). The southern flying squirrel is smaller, measuring 8-10 inches in length, while the northern flying squirrel is slightly larger at 10-12 inches. Both species belong to the genus Glaucomys.

Flying squirrels are not closely related to other tree squirrels like gray or red squirrels. They have evolved specialized adaptations for their nocturnal, gliding lifestyle.

Physical Characteristics

Flying squirrels have several distinctive features:

• Large, dark eyes for enhanced night vision
• Soft, silky fur (gray on top, white underneath)
• Loose flaps of skin between front and back legs
• Flattened tail for steering during glides
• Slightly upturned nose and large ears

These adaptations allow flying squirrels to glide efficiently between trees. Their patagium (the loose skin flap) acts as a wing when stretched out, enabling them to cover distances up to 160 feet in a single glide.

Behavior and Diet

Flying squirrels are nocturnal, becoming active at dusk and remaining so throughout the night. They are highly social, often nesting in groups during colder months for warmth.

Diet:

• Nuts (acorns, hickory nuts)
• Seeds
• Fruits
• Fungi
• Insects
• Bird eggs (occasionally)

These omnivores play an important role in forest ecosystems by dispersing seeds and spores of fungi. Flying squirrels are excellent climbers, using their sharp claws to navigate tree trunks and branches with ease.

Habitat and Range

Flying squirrels primarily inhabit mature deciduous and mixed forests. They prefer areas with abundant tree cover and cavities for nesting. The southern flying squirrel is found throughout the eastern United States, while the northern species has a more northern and western distribution.

Key habitat requirements:

• Mature trees (especially oaks and hickories)
• Snags or dead trees with cavities
• Dense forest canopy

These arboreal rodents rarely come to the ground, spending most of their time in trees. They create nests in tree cavities, abandoned woodpecker holes, or construct leaf nests high in branches. Flying squirrels are adaptable and can sometimes be found in suburban areas with sufficient tree cover.

Preparations for Hunting

Proper preparation is crucial for a successful flying squirrel hunt. Equipping yourself with the right gear, selecting an appropriate firearm, and prioritizing safety are essential steps before heading into the field.

Hunting Gear

A well-prepared hunter carries essential equipment for tracking and harvesting flying squirrels. A quality headlamp or flashlight is indispensable, as these nocturnal creatures are most active after dark. Binoculars help spot movement in treetops.

Camouflage clothing in earth tones helps hunters blend into the environment. Sturdy, waterproof boots provide comfort and protection during long hours in the woods.

A game bag or backpack is necessary for carrying harvested squirrels and other supplies. Include a sharp hunting knife for field dressing and basic first-aid supplies.

Don’t forget water and high-energy snacks to stay hydrated and alert throughout the hunt.

Choosing the Right Firearm

Selecting an appropriate firearm is critical for ethical and effective flying squirrel hunting. Two popular options are shotguns and .22 caliber rifles.

Shotguns, particularly 20-gauge or .410 bore, are effective for close-range shots in dense forest areas. They offer a wider shot pattern, increasing the chances of a clean kill on small, agile targets.

A .22 caliber rifle is ideal for more precise shooting at longer ranges. It requires greater skill but causes less damage to the meat.

Whichever firearm is chosen, hunters should practice shooting before the hunt to ensure accuracy and familiarity with their weapon.

Hunting Safety

Safety is paramount in any hunting situation. Hunters must always treat firearms as if they’re loaded and keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction.

Wearing blaze orange clothing increases visibility to other hunters, reducing the risk of accidents. It’s important to be aware of surroundings and potential hazards in the hunting area.

Hunters should inform someone of their planned location and expected return time. Carrying a fully charged cell phone or GPS device can be lifesaving in emergencies.

Familiarize yourself with local hunting regulations and obtain necessary licenses before the hunt. Adhering to these rules ensures a safe, legal, and enjoyable hunting experience.

Hunting Techniques

Flying squirrel hunting requires specialized approaches due to the nocturnal nature of these elusive creatures. Hunters employ various methods to locate and harvest flying squirrels effectively.

Spot-and-Stalk Method

The spot-and-stalk method involves quietly moving through the forest at night, searching for flying squirrels with a flashlight. Hunters scan tree trunks and branches for the reflective eyes of these nocturnal animals.

When a flying squirrel is spotted, the hunter carefully approaches, minimizing noise and movement. A red filter on the flashlight helps maintain stealth while still allowing visibility.

Patience is crucial, as flying squirrels may remain motionless when they detect a threat. Hunters must be prepared to wait silently for extended periods until the squirrel resumes activity.

Still-Hunting Strategy

Still-hunting involves finding a promising area and remaining stationary for extended periods. Hunters select locations near known flying squirrel habitats, such as mature hardwood forests with abundant den trees.

Setting up near feeding areas or travel corridors increases the chances of encountering flying squirrels. Hunters position themselves against a tree or in a ground blind to break up their silhouette.

Using a red headlamp allows for hands-free operation while maintaining night vision. Hunters must remain vigilant and scan their surroundings periodically for any movement or sound.

Bait and Wait Technique

The bait and wait technique involves setting up attractants to lure flying squirrels into a specific area. Hunters place bait such as nuts, seeds, or specially formulated squirrel attractants on fallen logs or stumps.

Positioning near natural den sites or areas with high squirrel activity increases success rates. Hunters set up in concealed locations downwind of the bait site to avoid detection.

Trail cameras can be used to monitor bait sites and determine peak activity times. This information helps hunters plan their outings for optimal success.

Understanding Squirrel Behavior

Flying squirrels exhibit distinct behavioral patterns crucial for successful hunting. Their activities revolve around foraging, nesting, and reproduction, each influenced by environmental factors and seasonal changes.

Daily Activity Patterns

Flying squirrels are primarily nocturnal, becoming active at dusk and remaining so throughout the night. They are most lively during the first few hours after sunset and before sunrise. These periods offer the best opportunities for hunters to spot them.

During the day, flying squirrels rest in their nests or tree cavities. They may occasionally emerge for brief periods, especially on overcast days. In winter, they can enter a state of torpor to conserve energy, reducing their activity levels.

Seasonal changes affect their behavior. Flying squirrels are more active in spring and fall, coinciding with mating seasons and food abundance.

Feeding Habits

Flying squirrels are omnivorous, with a diet consisting mainly of plant matter and occasional insects. Their primary food sources include:

• Nuts (acorns, hickory nuts, beechnuts)
• Seeds
• Fruits
• Fungi
• Tree buds and bark
• Insects and bird eggs (less frequently)

They forage extensively in nut-bearing trees, using their keen sense of smell to locate food. Flying squirrels often collect and store food for winter, creating caches in tree cavities or underground.

Their feeding activity intensifies in late summer and early fall as they prepare for winter. This period presents an excellent opportunity for hunters to locate them near food sources.

Nesting and Reproduction

Flying squirrels construct nests in tree cavities, abandoned woodpecker holes, or build leaf nests high in trees. They may also use human-made structures like birdhouses or attics.

Breeding occurs twice a year:

• Late winter/early spring
• Late summer

Gestation lasts about 40 days, with litters averaging 2-4 young. Females are protective of their young and may become more defensive during breeding seasons.

Nests are often reused and can house multiple squirrels during colder months for warmth. Identifying these nests can help hunters locate areas with higher squirrel activity.

Regulations and Conservation

Flying squirrel hunting is subject to strict regulations and conservation efforts. These measures aim to maintain healthy populations while allowing sustainable hunting practices.

Legal Requirements

Hunters must obtain proper licenses and permits before pursuing flying squirrels. Specific regulations vary by state and region. Bag limits are typically enforced to prevent overharvesting. In some areas, these limits may be as low as 2-3 squirrels per day.

Hunting seasons for flying squirrels are carefully scheduled. They often coincide with periods when populations are most stable. Seasons may run from early fall to late winter in many regions.

Certain hunting methods may be restricted or prohibited. Hunters should check local laws regarding firearm types, trapping techniques, and hunting on public lands.

Ethical Considerations

Ethical hunting practices are crucial for flying squirrel conservation. Hunters are expected to follow fair chase principles. This includes using appropriate weapons and avoiding excessive technology that gives unfair advantages.

Proper identification is essential. Hunters must distinguish flying squirrels from other squirrel species to avoid mistaken harvests.

Responsible hunters prioritize clean, quick kills to minimize animal suffering. They also fully utilize harvested animals, avoiding waste.

Conservation Status

Flying squirrel populations face various threats, including habitat loss and fragmentation. Some species are considered vulnerable or of conservation concern.

Hunting regulations are designed to support conservation efforts. Wildlife management agencies monitor population trends and adjust rules accordingly.

Habitat preservation is key to flying squirrel conservation. Protected areas and forest management practices play crucial roles in maintaining suitable environments for these nocturnal gliders.

Hunters can contribute to conservation by reporting sightings and participating in citizen science programs. This data helps inform management decisions and research efforts.

Post-Hunt Processing

Proper handling of harvested flying squirrels is crucial for food safety and quality. Field dressing should be done promptly, followed by careful meat preservation to ensure the best results.

Field Dressing

Begin field dressing immediately after the hunt. Remove the squirrel’s internal organs carefully to prevent spoilage. Start by making a small incision below the rib cage, taking care not to puncture the intestines. Gently pull out the organs, keeping the liver and heart if desired.

Cut around the squirrel’s waist, slicing through the hide but not the muscle. Peel the hide off like removing clothing, as the tissue connecting it to the muscle is strong. This method preserves the pelt for potential use.

Rinse the carcass with clean water to remove any debris or blood. Pat it dry with a clean cloth or paper towels. Proper field dressing helps cool the meat quickly and prevents bacterial growth.

Meat Preservation

Cooling the meat rapidly is essential for preservation. If the temperature is below 40°F, hang the dressed squirrel in a shaded area. For warmer conditions, place it in a cooler with ice.

At home, refrigerate the meat promptly if cooking within a few days. For longer storage, freeze the squirrel meat. Wrap it tightly in freezer paper or vacuum-seal it to prevent freezer burn. Properly frozen squirrel meat can last up to six months.

When preparing squirrel meat, always cook it to an internal temperature of 160°F to eliminate the risk of foodborne illnesses. Popular cooking methods include stewing with vegetables or breading and frying until golden brown.

Culinary Uses

Flying squirrel meat offers a unique culinary experience, combining gamey flavors with lean protein. Its preparation requires specific techniques to ensure safety and optimal taste.

Squirrel Recipes

Flying squirrel meat can be prepared in various ways. Stewing is a popular method, combining the meat with vegetables in a flavorful broth. Frying is another option, involving breading and cooking until golden brown. For a more exotic twist, squirrel curry is an excellent choice.

To make squirrel curry, sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in oil. Add squirrel meat and brown it. Incorporate tomatoes, curry spices like cumin and turmeric, and coconut milk. Simmer for 45 minutes until tender.

A green curry variation uses coconut milk, green curry paste, fish sauce, and soy sauce. Cook the squirrel in this mixture with stock until done.

Nutritional Information

Squirrel meat is a lean protein source, making it a healthy addition to one’s diet. It’s low in fat and calories compared to many domestic meats.

Squirrel meat provides essential nutrients like iron, niacin, and vitamin B12. It’s also a good source of phosphorus and selenium. The exact nutritional content can vary based on the squirrel’s diet and habitat.

When preparing squirrel meat, it’s crucial to cook it thoroughly. The internal temperature should reach 160°F to eliminate any risk of foodborne illnesses. This ensures safe consumption while preserving the meat’s nutritional benefits.

Local Hunting Guides

Local hunting guides and communities offer valuable resources for flying squirrel hunters. These experts provide insider knowledge of prime hunting locations and effective techniques specific to different regions.

Guided Hunts in Indiana

Indiana boasts several experienced guides specializing in flying squirrel hunts. These professionals know the best spots in state and national forests where flying squirrels are abundant. Many guides offer night hunts using specialized equipment like thermal imaging scopes.

Guided hunts typically last 4-6 hours and include all necessary gear. Prices range from $150-$300 per person. Some popular areas for guided hunts include Hoosier National Forest and Brown County State Park.

Hunters can expect to learn about flying squirrel behavior, habitat preferences, and effective calling techniques. Guides also teach proper field dressing and cooking methods for harvested squirrels.

Squirrel Hunting Communities

Online forums and social media groups connect flying squirrel hunters across Indiana and beyond. These communities share tips, hunting stories, and information on local regulations.

Popular platforms include:

• Facebook groups like “Indiana Squirrel Hunters”
• Reddit’s r/squirrelhunting subreddit
• State-specific hunting forums

Many of these communities organize group hunts and mentorship programs for new hunters. They also serve as valuable resources for equipment recommendations and updates on hunting conditions.

Local hunting clubs often hold squirrel hunting competitions and educational events. These gatherings provide opportunities to network with experienced hunters and learn new skills.