Photo © NestWatcher at Bethpage State Park

Flying Fluorescent Furball

Part of the fun of NestWatching is seeing nature up close, and this mammalian encounter is special because nocturnal creatures are typically very difficult to see. A NestWatcher shared this photo of a southern flying squirrel in a nest box on Long Island, New York. It took up shelter here after an Eastern Bluebird had finished using the box. What a surprise when, instead of an old nest to be cleaned, one finds this fluffy glider.

Fun fact: all three species of North American flying squirrels glow fluorescent pink under ultraviolet light!