The Flying Squirrel 6i 



animals are among the most beautiful creatures of 

 the forest. 



Pet squirrels are very common, but they are usually 

 of the red or gray varieties. I have had red, gray, 

 and flying squirrels, but to me the flying squirrel is 

 by far the most lovable. By nature he seems more 

 gentle and affectionate; even a wild one will seldom 

 nip your finger when taken in the hand, while a red 

 or gray will bite fiercely. 



My red and gray squirrels were quite tame, but 

 they always lacked the complete confidence which 

 was so apparent in the flying squirrel. The latter 

 would nestle in my hand, crawl into my pocket or up 

 my sleeve, or even go to sleep in my vest-front, evi- 

 dently enjoying the warmth of my body. This 

 natural affection and love of warmth are probably 

 the reasons why several flying squirrels live together 

 during the winter. 



My flying squirrels occupied a large cage with a 

 wheel attachment, the revolving of which seemed 

 to afford them much amusement. Sometimes both 

 squirrels would revolve the wheel together at a very 

 high rate of speed, and then, clinging to the wires, 

 ride round and round until the wheel nearly came 

 to rest. Then both would put it in motion, often 

 repeating the performance for half an hour at a time. 



