Are There Flying Squirrels in Colorado?

Ever marveled at the thought of gliding through Colorado's vast skies on silken wings? While Colorado is indeed home to an impressive array of wildlife, the common misconception about flying squirrels might lead one to believe that these arboreal acrobats are soaring through the Centennial State's skies. So, are there flying squirrels in Colorado? Let's delve into this fascinating question and debunk some myths along the way.

Before we tackle the primary question, let's briefly understand Colorado's rich biodiversity. Spanning diverse landscapes, from towering mountains to expansive plains, Colorado hosts a myriad of species, including 580 recorded bird species, 45 mammal species, and over 700 types of butterflies. Yet, when it comes to squirrels that fly, the story gets a bit complicated.

The Misconception: Flying Squirrels in Colorado

It's easy to see why the idea of flying squirrels in Colorado persists. After all, the state boasts numerous expansive forests and woodlands, perfect habitat for squirrels. However, the term "flying squirrel" often causes confusion. While it's true that these squirrels can glide short distances, they don't genuinely fly like birds do. They're excellent jumpers and use their patagium, a furry membrane along their front and hind legs, to glide and navigate through complex terrains efficiently. But they cannot sustain flight.

Adding to the confusion, Colorado's official state website once listed the "Colorado(Ailigene auspinosus) Flying Squirrel" on its "Mammals of Colorado" page. However, subsequent updates have since removed this entry, reflecting a more accurate representation of the state's fauna.

Introduced vs. Native Species

What many people might not realize is that Colorado's squirrel repertoire consists primarily of native, non-flying species, such as the western gray squirrel, the northern flying squirrel (albeit not a true flyer), and the American red squirrel. Meanwhile, the Eurasian red squirrel, once considered an introduced species, is now listed as native to the state.

The confusion surrounding the northern flying squirrel (Glaucomys sabrinus) is understandable. Despite its name, it's not a true flying squirrel, and it's not native to Colorado. It inhabits forests across Canada and the northern United States, preferring coniferous and mixed forest environments. Hence, it's not found in Colorado's diverse landscapes.

animator's Delight: The Southern Flying Squirrel

A valid query might be, "What about the southern flying squirrel (Glaucomys volans), the most common species bearing that name? Isn't it found in Colorado?" While it's true that the southern flying squirrel is more widespread, including parts of the eastern United States, Colorado doesn't quite make the list. Its westernmost range extends into Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas but doesn't reach the Rockies or the Colorado. This species is relatively small, measuring around five to eight inches in length, and possesses a distinct, long, bushy tail.

The northern flying squirrel, by contrast, is larger, with a more robust build, and a relatively shorter, bushy tail. Its coloration is also darker, blending well with the coniferous forests it inhabits. Its range doesn't extend far enough south to include Colorado.

Colorado's Native Squirrels

Now that we've cleared up the misconception regarding flying squirrels, let's acquaint ourselves with Colorado's native squirrel species. The western gray squirrel (Sciurus griseus), often mistaken for the eastern gray squirrel, is smaller and more slender. It possesses a rusty-brown or gray coat, white belly fur, and large, dark eyes. This squirrel primarily inhabits ponderosa pines and is a common sight in western Colorado's forests.

The American red squirrel (Tamasciurus hudsonicus) is easier to identify due to its reddish-orange, or fox-red, coat, often with dark ear tufts. This squirrel prefers coniferous forests and mountains, hence its abundance in Colorado's forested regions. The northern flying squirrel, while not truly flying, inhabits similar regions but has a limited range that excludes most of Colorado.

Ecological Balance: Colorado's Native Squirrels

Colorado's native squirrels play crucial roles in their respective habitats. They disperse seeds and nuts, maintain forest health, and serve as prey for various carnivorous species. Their activities contribute significantly to the overall biodiversity and ecological balance of the state. Understanding and appreciating their roles help us better comprehend and protect Colorado's rich natural heritage.

While it's exciting to imagine soaring through Colorado skies with the aid of silken wings, the reality is that the state's squirrels are terrestrial creatures, traversing its landscapes in more conventional ways. However, this doesn't diminish the wonder and beauty of Colorado's native squirrels and their vital roles in the state's vast and diverse ecosystems.

Next time you find yourself in Colorado's forests, keep an eye out for western gray or American red squirrels. Observe their agility and grace as they navigate their environments, and remember that while they don't fly, they're no less magnificent in their own right. So, while there might not be any true flying squirrels in Colorado, the state's skies are undoubtedly enchanted by the presence of these incredible creatures and their unique stories.