How to Tame a Flying Squirrel

Native to the southern United States, flying squirrels are animals similar to their ground-bound brethren, but with flaps of skin that they use to glide from tree to tree, giving the impression that the animal is flying. Surprisingly, these tiny critters are also renowned for making great pets that form deep bonds with their owners. For this reason, it is imperative that the owner take time to bond with the new pet, which is both fun and easy.

Things You'll Need

  • Bounding pouch or shirt with large breast pockets
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Instructions

    • 1

      Acquire your pet flying squirrel at no more than six weeks of age. If you have not started training it by this time, it will be very difficult to tame. The earlier you start after weaning, the better.

    • 2

      Obtain a bonding pouch or wear shirts with large, sturdy breast pockets for the flying squirrel to sleep in. A good bonding pouch should be made of a very breathable material and carried on your chest, close to your heart. Although little is known about "the bond," it is said that the more the kit can sense your heart beat, warmth and body odor the closer it will grow to you.

    • 3

      Carry the kit around with you as much as possible for at least the first two to three weeks. Keep in mind that the flying squirrel is nocturnal so will sleep while you carry it around, but should have ample room to move about in its cage at night.

    • 4

      Allow other family members and close friends to carry the baby as well during this time. This will ensure that the kit gets close to many people, rather than becoming totally reliant and defensive of a single person.

    • 5

      Feed the kit by hand as much as possible. A flying squirrel that is hand fed will not become defensive of its food. Rather, it will learn that you are the provider and trust you further.