TheJapanese dwarf flying squirrelandSiberian flying squirrelare known for their big eyes, small stature, and overall adorable appearance.
The Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys momonga) is only found on Japan’s Honshu and Kyushu islands.
Living in sub-alpine forests and boreal evergreen forests, these nocturnal animals blend into the trees with their coloring.
Siberian flying Squirrel (Photo:Japan Nature Guides)
Though the name might confuse you, these squirrels don’t fly.
Instead, they use a membrane called the patagium to glide from tree to tree.
But this isn’t the only Old World flying squirrel that lives in Japan.
Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Photo:Stock Photosfrom feathercollector/Shutterstock)
Known locally asEzo momonga, they’re about the same size as the Japanese dwarf flying squirrel.
However, their coloring is gray all over, as opposed to brown.
The species is old enough that it found itself in Japan back when the country was joined to Siberia.
Siberian flying Squirrel (Photo:Japan Nature Guides)
Eventually, as the countries broke apart, it was isolated in Hokkaido.
Though they’re tiny, their cute, cartoonish features have made them favorites in Japan.
In fact, both species are flourishing in their habitats.
