Aeretes Aeromys Belomys Biswamoyopterus Eoglaucomys Eupetaurus Glaucomys Hylopetes Iomys Petaurillus Petaurista Petinomys Priapomys Pteromys Pteromyscus Trogopterus Flying squirrels (scientifically known as Pteromyini or Petauristini) are a tribe of 50 species of squirrels in the family Sciuridae.

Despite their name, they are not in fact capable of full flight in the same way as birds or bats, but they are able to glide from one tree to another with the aid of a patagium, a furred skin membrane that stretches from wrist to ankle.

Molecular studies have shown that flying squirrels are monophyletic (having a common ancestor with no non-flying descendants) and originated some 18–20 million years ago.

The genus Paracitellus is the earliest lineage to the flying squirrel dating back to the late Oligocene era.

[3][4] The direction and speed of the animal in midair are varied by changing the positions of its limbs, largely controlled by small cartilaginous wrist bones.

[6] Possible origins for the styliform cartilage have been explored, and the data suggests that it is most likely homologous to the carpal structures that can be found in other squirrels.

[9] The colugos, Petauridae, and Anomaluridae are gliding mammals which are similar to flying squirrels through convergent evolution, although are not particularly close in relation.

Such differences in body proportions reveal the flying squirrels' adaptation to minimize wing loading and to increase maneuverability while gliding.

While leaps at high speeds are important to escape danger, the high-force impact of landing on a new tree could be detrimental to a squirrel's health.

[5] Yet the gliding mechanism of flying squirrels involves structures and techniques during flight that allow for great stability and control.

Subsequent research by biologists at Northland College in Northern Wisconsin found that this is true for all three species of North American flying squirrels.

Predators of flying squirrels include tree snakes, raccoons, owls, martens, fishers, coyotes, bobcats, and feral cats.

[3] In the Pacific Northwest of North America, the northern spotted owl (Strix occidentalis) is a common predator of flying squirrels.

The North American southern flying squirrel eats seeds, insects, gastropods (slugs and snails), spiders, shrubs, flowers, fungi, and tree sap.

After two and a half months, their gliding skills are perfected, they are ready to leave the nest, and are capable of independent survival.