Flying Squirrel Nest Site Use and Activity Patterns at Bagley Nature Area

Abstract

Flying squirrels are found in hardwood forests across North America, yet little is known about their habitat use and activity patterns. The focus of this project is on the use of nest trees of the southern flying squirrels (Glaucomys volans) present at Bagley Nature Area on the UMD campus (Image 1). Data collection was done by fitting the squirrels with VHF radiocollars and conducting daily monitoring visits in order to mark active nest locations. By analyzing the radiotelemetry data, we were able to identify nesting durations and distances between sites on a per-squirrel basis. We analyzed biological and behavioral comparisons in gender, season/temperature, nest site characteristics, number of days in a tree, distance traveled per night, as well as various other contributing factors. This data gains insight into the proportional habitat use and activity patterns of flying squirrels in northern Minnesota.