Southern flying squirrels are quite small. Adults usually are nine to 10 inches long including the tail, and they weigh between two and four ounces. Their fur is soft, silky and moderately long. The upper body is grayish to brownish in color, and the underparts are creamy white. The eyes are surrounded by a black ring, and a black border extends along the edge of the gliding membrane.
Some vocalizations are above the frequency range of the human ear.
Some researchers have speculated that flying squirrels use high-pitched sounds for navigation, similar to the echolocation system of bats. Although flying squirrels have an excellent sense of hearing, they do not have the highly specialized hearing system of bats, and echo location is unlikely. Habits Undoubtedly the most unusual habits of the southern flying squirrel are its gliding ability and its nocturnal behavior. The gliding of a flying squirrel is spectacular. Glides begin after the squirrel climbs to a lofty treetop perch and assesses the landing site by moving its head up and down and from side to side, apparently triangulating to judge distance.