Did You Know This Is the Only ‘Flying Mammal’ in New York?

I thought I knew about all the animals that lived in New York State, but apparently there's a hole in my knowledge big enough for a mammal to fly through.

In the past, I've been fascinated to learn about some of the lesser-knows (but equally as cool) animals that share our land. From fancy furbearers to creatures undergoing reintroductions upstate, there's always something going on. But what about the furry guys that can fly?

Some New Yorkers might be shocked to learn that this "flying" mammal calls the state home (Canva)

"Exotic" Animal That Calls New York Home

This all started when someone posted a photo of the critter in a group for lost pets in the Hudson Valley. Surely, I thought, it must be an exotic pet bought from a store. As it turns out, it was a wild animal that calls New York State home.

Incredibly, there are more than one species of flying mammal in New York State (Canva)

Flying Squirrels in New York State

The animal in question is the flying squirrel, which I was surprised to learn lives not only in New York, but in the entire northeast region of the United States. And that's not all...

Different Types of Flying Squirrels in New York

In New York State there are not one, but two species of flying squirrel. The northern flying squirrel can generally be found north of the mohawk valley, while the southern species can be found (guess where) south of the region. Here's how to find them:

Northern flying squirrels are described as being "reddish-brown" (Canva)

How to Find a Flying Squirrel in New York

Flying squirrels are nocturnal, so the first step to spotting one is going outside after the sun sets. Northern flying squirrels are an auburn color (above), and southern flying squirrels are gray (below). Keep an eye out for nests, and remember that despite their name, these rodents glide instead of actually fly.

Southern flying squirrels are adorable and gray (Canva)