A team assigned to remove a dying tree at a university stumbled upon a surprising find: a group of flying squirrels. The discovery, captured on video by a crew member, intrigued Professor Larkin Powell, an expert in nature conservation. He was astonished because flying squirrels are typically found much farther away from Nebraska, with this being the only known group in the state. These nocturnal creatures had been secretly inhabiting the tree canopy above the university’s School of Natural Resources. Professor Powell explained that these elusive animals are hard to spot due to their small size and nocturnal habits.

Flying squirrels are renowned for gliding rather than true flight, as highlighted by the National Wildlife Federation. While the southern flying squirrel is common in the eastern United States, its northern counterpart is found in the Northeast, West Coast, and parts of the Northwest. Scientist Shaun Dunn, who has been observing Lincoln flying squirrels since 2018, notes their graceful gliding abilities. Professor Don Althoff, with nearly three decades of experience studying wildlife preservation, has focused on southern flying squirrels. He observes that while they glide with grace, their movements on the ground can appear awkward. This discovery has sparked enthusiasm among university faculty and students, prompting further exploration of flying squirrels in the area and reinforcing the importance of wildlife conservation and monitoring animal populations.