Can Flying Squirrels Swim? Unveiling the Truth About Their Aquatic Abilities
While not natural swimmers in the same vein as otters or beavers, flying squirrels can swim in emergency situations. Their ability to swim, though limited, is a crucial survival skill.
Introduction: More Than Just Gliding
Flying squirrels, those adorable nocturnal acrobats of the forest, are best known for their remarkable ability to glide between trees. Thanks to a membrane called the patagium, which stretches between their wrists and ankles, these animals can take to the air and cover considerable distances without touching the ground. But what happens when these arboreal experts encounter water? Can flying squirrels swim? The answer, as we’ll explore, is more nuanced than a simple yes or no. This article delves into the swimming abilities of flying squirrels, examining the physiological factors at play and exploring the contexts in which they might find themselves needing to navigate aquatic environments.
Gliding vs. Swimming: Understanding the Physiological Differences
The patagium, so essential for gliding, plays a different role in the water. While it doesn’t act as a fin, it does provide some surface area for propulsion. Unlike animals specifically adapted for swimming, such as otters with their streamlined bodies and webbed feet, flying squirrels lack these specialized features. Their bodies are designed for agility in the trees, not efficiency in the water. Their fur, while dense, isn’t naturally waterproof, meaning they become waterlogged relatively quickly.
How Flying Squirrels Swim (In Emergencies)
Although flying squirrels can swim, it’s important to understand that it’s primarily a survival mechanism rather than a preferred activity. When faced with an unexpected body of water, a flying squirrel will typically employ a dog-paddle-like stroke. They will use their limbs to paddle and attempt to keep their head above water. The patagium assists slightly by providing additional surface area, but its effectiveness is limited. The key is quick, purposeful movement toward the nearest shore.
Here’s a breakdown of their swimming technique:
- Paddling: Uses front and hind legs in a coordinated paddling motion.
- Buoyancy: Relies on air trapped in their fur for initial buoyancy.
- Direction: Focuses on maintaining a straight course towards the nearest land.
- Speed: Swims relatively slowly; speed diminishes rapidly as they become waterlogged.
The Dangers of Water for Flying Squirrels
While flying squirrels can swim short distances, water presents significant dangers to them. Hypothermia is a major threat, especially in colder climates. A wet flying squirrel loses body heat much faster than a dry one. Additionally, the weight of the waterlogged fur makes swimming more difficult, increasing the risk of drowning. Furthermore, the water itself may contain predators, such as fish or larger aquatic animals, which can further jeopardize their survival.
Swimming as an Escape Mechanism
The primary reason a flying squirrel might swim is to escape danger. This could include escaping a terrestrial predator that has driven them into the water or navigating floodwaters. While not their ideal method of travel, it allows them to avoid immediate threats and search for safer ground. The ability to swim even weakly can be the difference between life and death.
Examples of Flying Squirrels and Water
While documented cases are rare, reports do exist of flying squirrels being observed swimming in lakes, rivers, and even swimming pools (accidentally). These instances highlight the capacity of flying squirrels to swim as a last resort. It’s important to note that such scenarios are usually triggered by external factors that force them into the water.
How to Help a Flying Squirrel in the Water
If you encounter a flying squirrel struggling in the water, exercise caution and prioritize your safety. You can carefully extend a branch or a net towards the squirrel to offer it a way to climb out. Avoid directly handling the animal, as it may be scared and bite. Once the squirrel is safely out of the water, observe it from a distance to ensure it recovers and doesn’t require further assistance. Contacting a local wildlife rehabilitator is advised if the squirrel appears injured or unable to move.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do flying squirrels enjoy swimming?
No, flying squirrels do not enjoy swimming. Swimming is typically a last resort for them, employed only when necessary for survival. They are much more comfortable and adapted to navigating the arboreal environment.
How far can a flying squirrel swim?
The distance a flying squirrel can swim is limited. Due to the lack of aquatic adaptations and the risk of hypothermia, they can typically only swim short distances, perhaps 10-20 feet, depending on their condition and the water temperature.
Are baby flying squirrels able to swim?
Baby flying squirrels, also known as pups, are even less proficient swimmers than adults. They are more vulnerable to hypothermia and lack the strength to swim effectively. Therefore, water poses a significant threat to young flying squirrels.
What makes flying squirrels poor swimmers?
Their lack of physical adaptations for swimming is the main reason. Unlike aquatic mammals with streamlined bodies, webbed feet, and waterproof fur, flying squirrels are built for gliding and climbing. Their patagium, while useful for gliding, is not designed for efficient propulsion in water.
What happens if a flying squirrel gets wet?
If a flying squirrel gets wet, its fur loses its insulating properties, making it vulnerable to hypothermia. The added weight of the waterlogged fur also makes movement more difficult, both in the water and on land.
Can flying squirrels drown?
Yes, flying squirrels can drown. Prolonged exposure to water, coupled with exhaustion and the inability to stay afloat, significantly increases the risk of drowning.
What should I do if I find a wet and shivering flying squirrel?
Gently dry the squirrel with a soft towel and place it in a warm, safe place, such as a cardboard box lined with clean towels. Contact a local wildlife rehabilitator immediately for further guidance. Avoid attempting to feed the animal yourself.
How can I prevent flying squirrels from falling into my pool?
Make sure there are easy escape routes for small animals that might fall into your pool. Ropes, planks, or even floating devices can provide a way for them to climb out. Covering the pool when not in use is also an effective preventative measure.
Do flying squirrels swim underwater?
No, flying squirrels do not swim underwater. They primarily stay at the surface and paddle to propel themselves forward. Their lack of underwater adaptations makes diving dangerous for them.
Is it common for flying squirrels to swim?
It is not common for flying squirrels to swim. It is considered an emergency behavior, and they will typically avoid bodies of water if possible.
What kind of stroke do flying squirrels use when they swim?
They usually use a dog-paddle-like stroke, employing their limbs in a coordinated paddling motion to propel themselves through the water.
Are there any species of flying squirrels that are better swimmers than others?
There is no documented evidence to suggest that certain species of flying squirrels are significantly better swimmers than others. The basic physiological limitations apply to all species. While individual squirrels may display varying degrees of swimming ability, it is unlikely to be due to inherent species-specific adaptations.