Stage 8 — Nocturnal Soft Release Planning

Experienced flying-squirrel rehabilitation guidance recommends not releasing before at least 18 weeks of age, and weather/season can make overwintering appropriate. Age is only one gate. Health, body condition, wild behavior, glide performance, habitat, legal status and seasonal conditions all must be acceptable.

• Within native range and as close to the original find area as is safe and legally appropriate.
• Mature, connected trees with cavities/nest opportunities and enough canopy structure for gliding.
• Appropriate natural food resources for the species.
• Evidence of local flying-squirrel habitat/population when possible.
• As little road, free-roaming cat and other avoidable human hazard exposure as practical.
• Permission from the landowner/manager and compliance with wildlife-agency requirements.
• For possible Carolina northern flying squirrels or other protected populations, agency direction overrides a generic release plan.

1. Move the familiar pre-release/nest box to the final site as part of the acclimation plan.
2. Allow time for the animal to settle into the site and local sounds/smells.
3. Open the release access at dusk/evening, when a flying squirrel naturally becomes active.
4. Let the squirrel leave on its own. Do not toss it into a tree or force a “practice flight.”
5. Leave the familiar nest box available as a refuge.
6. Provide temporary supplemental food and water at the release station while the squirrel transitions.