Citizen Science – Flying Squirrel

Since 2024, the Biodiversity Genomics group at the University of Oulu invites citizens across Finland to learn about the Siberian flying squirrel (Pteromys volans), connect with scientists, and contribute ongoing research.

Downloads…

> [EN] Citizen Sampling Flyer
> [FI] Citizen Sampling Flyer
> [EN] Sampling Guide
> [FI] Sampling Guide – coming soon…
> [EN] Quick Guide
> [FI] PowerPoint Presentation for Nuuksio Poop Hunt 2026

Siberian flying squirrels in Lapua, Finland. © Pekka Takamaa

Siberian flying squirrel droppings in Syöte, Finland.

Flying Squirrel – Research Project Webpage 🔗

Flying Squirrel – INFO SHEET

Distribution: Within the EU, the Siberian flying squirrel is found mainly in the southern half of Finland, with a small remnant population in Estonia.

Habitat: Flying squirrels prefer mature mixed and spruce-dominated forests, but can also be found in towns and cities.

Have you seen a flying squirrel or found its droppings?
Record your observation at Laji.fi!
– View all observations
– View observations recorded since 2020

Distribution map of the Siberian flying squirrel in Finland and Estonia (source: metsa.fi)

How can you help?

Record flying squirrel observations in laji.fi or iNaturalist Suomi. This information supports management directly by discovering and monitoring the presence of flying squirrels.
Reach out and share your personal stories and insights about flying squirrels – have you made in interesting observation? Did you find flying squirrels where you didn’t expect them? Do you have questions about the flying squirrels in your local population?
We would love to hear about your observations, ideas, and questions!
Collect flying squirrel droppings from your area and send them to our lab at the University of Oulu. There, we are building a collection of samples that shape the basis of on-going and future research (see our flying squirrel research page), such as the development of new monitoring tools. Furthermore, we will share the results we have gathered from your samples with you as the research is progressing! Contact us in the form below, or directly via email.