South & Canal Winchester Messenger - April 21st, 2024

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PAGE 12 - SOUTH & CANAL WINCHESTER MESSENGER - April 21, 2024 www.columbusmessenger.com The amazing flying squirrels of Ohio By Ayden Van Fossen Naturalist at Highbanks Metro Park When you think of squirrels in Ohio, likely the first images to pop into your head are that of gray squirrels running through your yard, fox squirrels jumping through an open understory, or even maybe the loud chatter of red squirrels within a conifer stand. These three species — the so-called tree squirrels — make up only three of the seven species of squirrel in Ohio. Our squirrels are spread out across six genera and include lesser-known species of squirrels, like the southern flying squirrel and thirteen-lined ground squirrels. Additionally, we are home to two species that one may not realize are squirrels - eastern chipmunks and groundhogs. Ohio squirrels are unique, remarkable animals that are often easy to overlook due to their relative abundance, but in actuality, they demonstrate phenomenal examples of adaptation to thrive in their environment. Groundhogs are the only true hibernators in the state, thirteen-lined ground squirrels are very streamlined – perfect for dashing through open fields and into tunnels – and flying squirrels have the ability to take to the air and glide from tree to tree. Flying squirrels are arguably the most fascinating and uniquely adapted of all their other squirrelly cousins, with their characteristic skin membranes serving as a parachute of sorts. Known as the patagium, this flap of skin connects at the wrist and ankle allowing them to efficiently move through the air. Consequently, this makes them a little more awkward on the ground. Of course, the common name of these animals is a bit of a misnomer seeing as they are not capable of true self-powered flight. Bats are the only mammals which are truly able to fly. Flying squirrels are gliders, relying on gravity, wind and their patagia to keep them moving in the air. Southern flying squirrels are probably the most populous species of squirrel in Ohio. This often takes people by surprise, as I have had plenty of encounters with visitors responding with “Wow I had no clue we had flying squirrels!” or “Why have I Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has officially declared 2024 as the Year of Ohio State Parks. This declaration marks the 75th anniversary of Ohio State Parks and underscores the state’s commitment to preserving its natural wonders and expanding outdoor adventures. “Ohio’s state parks, where admission is always free, give visitors an opportunity to gain a deeper appreciation of Ohio’s natural heritage,” said DeWine. “The Year of Ohio State Parks is the perfect time to visit one or more of Ohio’s 75 state parks, experience our state’s natural beauty, and never seen one?” The answer to the latter is simple, our flying squirrels are almost strictly nocturnal. They are built for this lifestyle in the dark, with their big, dark, buggy eyes aiding them in navigating the forest after nightfall. These squirrels are certainly maneuverable in the air. With the aid of their patagium and flattened feather-like tail, which acts as a rudder, these squirrels can make quick turns while airborne. The featherlike tail also aids in landing. When the squirrel is nearing a landing pad, it will raise that flattened tail, which in turn forces the back half of the squirrel down to land feet first. An additional way that the southern flying squirrel stands out from our other squirrel species in the state is its diet. Flying squirrels are often called the most carnivorous of our squirrels, and for good reason. They will readily take insects, birds, nestlings, eggs, carrion, and even occasionally other small rodents. However, they will still consume food that is commonly associated with squirrels, such as nuts, berries, fruits, and seeds, and may also take them from your bird feeder. It is not uncommon to find these squirrels feasting on the seeds in your feeder well into the night. Flying squirrels appear to especially have an affinity for hickory nuts, and will also cache nuts in the fall. These caches are done by scatter hoarding, which is when caches are spread out across the landscape rather than being concentrated in one place. Spotting flying squirrels can be tricky because of their nocturnal nature. The aforementioned bird feeder technique can be effective, but they do also vocalize. Vocalizations are high-pitched buzzes and chirps, and almost sound like a slightly lower-pitched golden-crowned kinglet call (if kinglets called at night) with a mix of red squirrel chatter. Indirect signs of squirrels can be found in various forms, such as caches, but also scat, which are small, brown, oval shaped pellets. Flying squirrels also chew nuts in a unique way, making them easy to identify as squirrel signs. They are much neater than their squirrely cousins when chewing, and this results in Photos courtesy of Metro Parks A flying squirrel glides towards a park feeder. This photo was captured by Tim Daniel. A flying squirrel at a park feeder. This photo was taken by Ayden Van Fossen. the nut having a very circular bevel-like cut where they extracted the “meat.” Furthermore, look for a notch at the anterior end of the nut that the squirrel would 2024 is the Year of Ohio State Parks actively participate in the preservation of these treasured lands.” Ohio’s state parks and waterways are renowned for their breathtaking landscapes and diverse recreational opportunities. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Parks and Watercraft plays a pivotal role in safeguarding these resources, ensuring that Ohioans can continue to enjoy the many benefits of spending quality time in nature. “We are excited to celebrate what we believe to be the best state park system in the country,” ODNR Director Mary Mertz said. Park staff serve as stewards and caretakers of the parks, preserving the state’s natural and cultural history. The Year of Ohio State Parks is an historic celebration, emphasizing the outstanding opportunities statewide to honor and appreciate some of the world’s most iconic outdoor destinations. DeWine’s proclamation highlights the pivotal role state parks have played to expand access to the outdoors for people of all backgrounds. Through a variety of safe and equitable outdoor activities and events, state parks foster stronger social ties, celebrate Ohio’s rich culture, and showcase the have used to carry the nut, perhaps to a safer feeding location. It can be hard to use your paws to carry things while in the air. state’s remarkable ecosystem. Ohio started designating properties as official state parks in 1949 when lawmakers created the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. ODNR is also celebrating a department-wide 75th anniversary throughout 2024 by highlighting the achievements of all 12 divisions, including the Division of Parks and Watercraft. For more information and to stay updated on the 75th anniversary celebration events and activities as well as all the programming the state parks have to offer, visit ohiodnr.gov.
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