Can you get a flying squirrel as a pet?
If cared for properly, flying squirrels can be affectionate pets. The first few weeks after bringing them home is the most important. Hand feeding and daily handling will help them bond with you. Due to flying squirrels’ exotic status, they are illegal to own in 10 states.
How much does a pet flying squirrel cost?
A flying squirrel can be purchased from specialized breeders and the average cost is around $450, but they go up to $600 or more, and sell out quickly depending on the breeder. It’s important to buy them at 6 to 8 weeks of age to make sure you can bond to them.
Can a flying squirrel be tamed?
Even though they are primarily nocturnal, southern flying squirrels can spend an entire day sleeping in an owner’s pouch or pocket. Squirrels that are not hand-reared or handled much may bite if scared and are very fast and skittish. It can be nearly impossible to tame a wild, adult southern flying squirrel.
Is it illegal to keep squirrels as pets?
Squirrels. Squirrels eat nearly anything, which is partly why they are illegal to keep as pets in California. Given the prevalence of wild squirrels in California, it may surprise you to learn that keeping one as a pet is illegal.
How long do pet flying squirrels live?
10 years
Flying squirrels can live up to 10 years in captivity or about half that in the wild. Flying squirrels are common rodents in many parts of the country, but because they are nocturnal, few people ever see them.
What can I feed a flying squirrel?
Flying squirrels eat berries, seeds, bird eggs, acorns, nuts, and some insects. They also eat meat, and they tend to store some food in the tree crotches or the nest chamber.
How do you pick up a flying squirrel?
Hold the baby squirrel by placing your forefinger and thumb around its neck. Hold its foreleg between your forefinger and middle finger of your other hand as you support its weight in this hand also. Avoid holding the squirrel by its tail since this can cause its skin to strip off.
Do flying squirrels carry disease?
Though rabies is strongly associated with wildlife pests, flying squirrels are not known to transmit the virus. In fact, the northern species of the pest doesn’t harbor any known diseases that can be passed on to humans.
How long do flying squirrels live?
Flying squirrels can live up to 10 years in captivity or about half that in the wild. Flying squirrels are common rodents in many parts of the country, but because they are nocturnal, few people ever see them.
What kind of Cage does a flying squirrel need?
Habitat. Choose a cage made predominately of wire with spaces of no bigger than half an inch, to allow for good air circulation. For very young squirrels, a small cage is appropriate, but you should be prepared to provide a larger cage once they reach 6 months in age.
How do you care for a flying squirrel?
Be sure to keep fresh, clean water available at all times. Water can be placed in a water bottle or a small dish, and either needs to be washed each time water is refilled. Offer commercial squirrel or hamster food daily, as well as fresh fruits, nuts and seed. Hard nuts such as pecans and walnuts will help keep his teeth from getting too long.
Can You domesticate a squirrel?
You can’t domesticate a squirrel, because domestication is a process that takes many generations. But you can tame one. Baby squirrels are very friendly and unafraid of people, so if you get one young enough and hand raise it there is a very good chance that it will become tame.
How do you tame squirrels?
Accepting the nut from hand, can now lead to more adventurous moves with the squirrel. You can start by simply sitting down and offering the peanut to the squirrel, but making them climb up on your lap to accept it. You can also put the nut on your shoulder and have them crawl up you arm to retrieve it.
