Species profile
About this species
The Ezo Flying Squirrel is a subspecies of the Siberian flying squirrel found exclusively on Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost main island. It is a small, nocturnal mammal with large eyes adapted for low-light conditions & a gliding membrane called a patagium that stretches between its front & hind limbs. With its soft grey-brown fur & endearingly large dark eyes, it is considered one of the most charming & photogenic small mammals in Japan.
The Ezo Flying Squirrel inhabits mature mixed & coniferous forests across Hokkaido, favouring areas with large old-growth trees that provide natural cavities for nesting. It is commonly found in woodland edges, forested hillsides & parks where birch, oak & conifer species are abundant.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
In the field, David Miles, Ian Roberts & Pui Hang Miles helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
The best time to photograph the Ezo Flying Squirrel is at dusk & dawn during late winter to early spring, particularly between February & April, when the animals are active against a snowy backdrop that provides excellent contrast. They are most reliably spotted near nesting holes in mature trees during these cooler months.
Use a fast lens with a wide aperture such as f/1.8 or f/2.8 to capture sufficient light during the species' nocturnal activity periods, & pair this with a high ISO setting to freeze movement in low light. Scout known feeding trees such as Japanese white birch & alder in advance, as the squirrels tend to return to the same sites repeatedly, allowing you to pre-focus & set up your composition before dusk. Use a red-filtered torch rather than white light to observe & illuminate the squirrel without disturbing its natural behaviour, keeping your flash use minimal & diffused if artificial light is necessary.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Ezo Flying Squirrel
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.