A First for PixCams!

At PixCams, we often witness the wonders of nature, but this season brought an unexpected surprise. One of our songbird nest boxes became home to a flying squirrel, who transformed the cozy space into a nursery for her new family. This rare and heartwarming sight is a first for PixCams, offering a unique glimpse into the lives of these elusive creatures as they care for their newborns.

A little over a month ago we noticed a flying squirrel that brought nesting material into Bird Box 3. At the time we didn’t know what to make of this since the nesting material covered the squirrel from the cameras view. However, on a warm afternoon on August 14, 2024 mom pulled the covers off and exposed her littler of babies!

Southern Squirrel Babies in Bird Box 3 8/14/2024

At this point we do not know how old the babies are. Our best guess is they are a few weeks old. How many babies are in the nest box? We believe there are 3 to 4 baby squirrels in the box, but we haven’t confirmed the total yet.

How often do Flying Squirrels Nest?

Southern flying squirrels are relatively common in Pennsylvania, particularly in the eastern and central parts of the state, where they inhabit deciduous and mixed forests. These nocturnal creatures are elusive, making them less likely to be spotted by casual observers. However, they are more common than most people realize, often living right in our backyards.

Nesting Frequency

Southern flying squirrels generally breed twice a year. The first breeding season occurs in late winter to early spring, around February to March. The second breeding season happens later in the year, typically from July to August. During these periods, female flying squirrels prepare nests in tree cavities or nest boxes, where they can raise their young safely.

Nesting Habits

Flying squirrels prefer nesting in cavities of mature trees, especially oaks, hickories, and beeches. They may also utilize abandoned woodpecker holes or nest boxes if available. The nests are lined with soft materials such as moss, leaves, and shredded bark, providing a comfortable and warm environment for their young.

Timing of Nesting

The exact timing of nesting can vary depending on the local climate and food availability. During the breeding seasons, a female flying squirrel may produce a litter of two to six young. These babies are born hairless and blind, requiring the mother’s care and protection for the first few months. After about two months, the young are weaned and begin to explore outside the nest, although they may continue to use the nest for shelter and warmth.

Implications for Observation

For those interested in observing flying squirrels, the best chances are during the nesting periods, particularly around dusk and dawn when these nocturnal animals are most active. Installing nest boxes in suitable habitats can encourage flying squirrels to take up residence, offering a unique opportunity to watch these fascinating creatures up close. Installing a live camera in a nest box offers a unique window into the secretive lives of flying squirrels, allowing for real-time observation without disturbing the animals. This setup provides invaluable insights into their nesting behaviors, maternal care, and developmental milestones of the young. If you want to set up your own live camera see our new FREE PixCams EZ Streamer live streaming encoder!

How long will the babies be in the nest box?

Southern flying squirrels typically stay in the nest for about two months after birth. During this period, the young are nursed and cared for by the mother, remaining in the nest until they develop enough to venture out. They are born hairless and blind, requiring significant maternal care and feeding until they open their eyes at about four weeks. As they grow, they begin exploring the nest area under the mother’s watchful eye. By about eight weeks old, the young squirrels are weaned and become more independent, gradually leaving the nest to forage on their own and establish their own territories.

What Can I Expect to See?

Watching our baby flying squirrels in Bird Box 3 offers a unique glimpse into the fascinating development of these nocturnal creatures. Here’s what you can expect to see over the time they are in the nest box:

First Few Weeks

Initially, the baby flying squirrels, or kits, are born blind, hairless, and entirely dependent on their mother. During the first couple of weeks, the mother will spend significant time with her offspring, keeping them warm and feeding them with her milk. You’ll notice a period of rapid growth as the kits begin to develop fur, usually around their second week. The mother will frequently leave and return, foraging for food to sustain her energy and nurse the young. At this stage, the kits will still be relatively immobile, huddling together for warmth and security.

Weeks Three to Five

As they reach their third week, the kits’ eyes start to open, and they become more aware of their surroundings. By this time, you may observe increased activity within the nest box, as the young start exploring their limited environment, albeit still under the watchful eye of their mother. Their fur will continue to thicken, and their characteristic membrane (patagium) begins to form more distinctly, preparing them for future gliding adventures.

Week Six to Seven

Around six weeks, the kits will begin to take on the full appearance of adult flying squirrels, albeit in miniature form. They will become more playful and adventurous, practicing gliding motions and exercising their muscles within the nest box. This period is crucial for them to develop the skills necessary for survival outside the nest. You might witness short gliding attempts from one side of the nest box to the other, as they build confidence and coordination.

Eight Weeks and Beyond

By the eighth week, the young flying squirrels are nearly ready to leave the nest box. They will have developed strong gliding abilities and will be actively exploring beyond the confines of their nest during the night. At this stage, the mother starts to wean them off her milk, encouraging them to forage for their food. You might see them less frequently in the nest box as they adapt to their new, independent lifestyle.

Post-Fledging

After leaving the nest box, the young squirrels will remain close by, often returning to the nest for refuge or during adverse weather. Their bond with their mother and siblings remains strong, as they continue to learn crucial survival skills. Over time, they will establish their territories and find or create their nest sites, embarking on their journey as fully-fledged flying squirrels.

Monitoring a nest box with baby flying squirrels is not only an enchanting experience but also offers valuable insights into their lifecycle and behaviors. Observers can witness the remarkable transformation from vulnerable newborns to agile, independent gliders, all within a span of a few months.

Watch the Flying Squirrel Nest Box LIVE Here: https://pixcams.com/bird-nest-box-3/

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