Where surface water is not available, squirrels appear to be physiologically adapted and get sufficient water from food, dew and rains. They probably make use of water that temporarily collects in tree cavities. Limiting Factors Flying squirrels have been known to live 13 years in captivity, but seldom live five years in the wild. A variety of predators and internal and external parasites can affect them. Predators include owls, domestic cats, hawks, snakes, bobcats, raccoons, weasels and foxes.
Predation is probably no more significant for flying squirrels than it is for other tree squirrels.
External parasites reported from flying squirrels include fleas, lice and mites, and internal parasites include nematodes and protozoans. None of those parasites are known to be substantial limiting factors. Few diseases have been reported in flying squirrels, and none are thought to be significant. The amount and quality of habitat are probably the most important factors limiting flying squirrel populations in Nebraska. The range of the southern flying squirrel coincides closely with the range of several species of oaks and hickories.