Chances are, in spite of the fact Georgia is home to both northern and southern flying squirrels, you probably have not seen them at your feeders; this due, in large part, to the fact they are nocturnal.

       The vast majority of Georgians will never see a northern flying squirrel since its range extends only into a small section in northeast Georgia.  The southern flying squirrel, on the other hand, ranges across the entire state, including the range of the northern flying squirrel.  With that in mind, I am going to focus my comments on just the southern flying squirrel.

       Those of us that have mature oaks and hickories growing either in or close to our yards have the best chance of seeing these fascinating mammals. Acorns and hickory nuts are two of their favorite foods.  However, they are also fond of sunflower seeds. The best way to feed them to southern flying squirrels is to place them in a platform feeder.

      Some people have accidentally discovered southern flying squirrels visit their yard when the animals’ activities triggered motion-activated security lights. In addition, some homeowners point incandescent yard lights on their feeders so they can watch the animals feed. Others prefer to bathe their feeding area in the glow of red lights.  Although red light is not totally invisible to the squirrels, we can see squirrels moving about.

       In recent years, some homeowners have begun watching flying squirrels with using UV-flashlights.  If you decide to use these special devices, read the instruction material that accompanies them.  Improper use of them can lead to eye damage.

       When you shine UV light on the animals, you will discover that areas on their flying squirrels’ body will appear to be pink.

       Whatever source of light you use, if you notice that your light source is altering their activities, shut the lights down.