In this short piece, Ill explain how long a Northern Flying Squirrel measures in centimeters. Although people admire these little glide-masters for their big eyes and acrobatic moves, many still wonder just how small-or big-they really are.
Knowing their length helps scientists tell this species apart and learn more about its habits in the forest. So lets take a closer look at their measurements.
Overview
The Northern Flying Squirrel, or Glaucomys sabrinus, is a small, night-active rodent that calls many North American forests home. Thanks to a special flap of skin that stretches between its limbs, the creature sails almost silently from branch to branch, leaving onlookers spellbound.
Though its acrobatics steal the show, many people still ask a simple, down-to-earth question: just how long is a Northern Flying Squirrel when measured in centimeters? In this post, well break down its length, body features, and why solid measurements matter for understanding the species.
Understanding the Basics of Northern Flying Squirrel Size
A Northern Flying Squirrels size changes a bit depending on whether you count just its body or include its long tail. Usually, an adult has a body that measures around 12 to 15 centimeters tops. That distance runs from the very tip of its nose to the point where the tail attaches. .
Add the tail into the mix and the measurement jumps noticeably. With the tail factored in, another 9 to 14 centimeters slides onto the tape, so the critter stretches roughly 21 to 29 centimeters from nose to tail tip. That tail isnt just for show-it helps the squirrel balance in the air and steer like a tiny parachute.
T H heads up, animals are not rulers, and slight size differences can pop up in real life. Depending on local genetics or the food they find, some flying squirrels will slide a few centimeters either way of these numbers.
Caretakers and wildlife watchers should always respect that each animal is unique. So while the ranges give a decent idea, measuring an individual squirrel usually gives the best answer.
The Role of the Tail in Length and Function
Most rodents have tails that help them keep balance on the ground. The Northern Flying Squirrel, however, puts that long strip of fur to work like a pilots rudder when it glides through the trees. Its tail is wide, flat, and covered in soft hair-an upgrade built for steering in midair.
Whether you spot one in the forest or watch it chew apples in a wildlife center, the tail often looks nearly as long as the rest of the animal, or even a tiny bit longer. Some older squirrels show off tails that stretch past 14 centimeters, though you wont see that size every day.
Growth and Size Differences
Northern flying squirrels dont arrive in the world fully grown. At birth they are tiny little furballs, and over the weeks their length slowly stretches to a noticeable inch-by-inch gain. By the time they hit their first birthday, most reach the height that makes them full adults.
Males and females look almost exactly alike, yet females during breeding season often tip the scales a tad higher because they carry extra weight.
Geography also plays a quiet role in shaping size. In line with Bergmanns Rule, cold-weather squirrels living far north can be a shade bulkier than their warm-climate cousins, simply because larger bodies help conserve heat.
Comparison with Other Flying Squirrel Species
The Northern Flying Squirrel overlaps almost everywhere with its little cousin, the Southern Flying Squirrel (Glaucomys volans). A Southern adult stretches about 9 to 11 inches long and has a 7- to 10-inch tail, so- overall- it looks ham-sized beside the bigger Northern critter.
Wildlife watchers lean on that quick size check when both kinds glide through the same woods. Color helps, too: Northerns wear gray coats, while Southerns sport a warm cinnamon-brown.
Why Measuring Their Length Matters
Measuring the length of a Northern Flying Squirrel is more than a fun fact; it helps scientists do real work in the field. Wildlife biologists take these body numbers to:
- Identify species and subspecies.
- Monitor health and growth.
- Determine age class and developmental stage.
- Compare population differences across regions.
In rescue centers or zoos, knowing an individuals length also lets caregivers track growth, build the right-sized nest, and plan swings and slides that let the squirrel glide without risk.
Conclusion
So, just how long is a Northern Flying Squirrel in centimeters? When they reach full size, their body measures roughly 12 to 15 centimeters, and the fluffy tail tacks on another 9 to 14 centimeters, bringing their total length up to about 21 to 29 centimeters.
Though they may seem tiny, every single centimeter is built for gliding, helping these little acrobats survive in the trees.
Whether you’re a curious student, a backyard researcher, or simply someone who loves a good forest story, knowing how big these squirrels really are adds valuable context to their behavior, biology, and place in the woodland community.
Those numbers help with quick identification and care while deepening our appreciation for the clever design that lets them soar between branches.
FAQ
What is the average length of a Northern Flying Squirrel in centimeters?
The average body length of an adult Northern Flying Squirrel is 12 to 15 centimeters. This measurement excludes the tail.
How long is a Northern Flying Squirrel including the tail?
When you include the tail, the total length ranges from 21 to 29 centimeters. The tail itself is usually 9 to 14 centimeters long.
Do male and female Northern Flying Squirrels differ in length?
Both sexes are similar in size, but females may be slightly larger, especially during the breeding season. However, the difference is generally small.
