Flying Squirrel
Why do squirrels fly, you ask? To get to the other tree!
Seriously, folks, there are 43 kinds of nocturnal rodents known as flying squirrels. They don't actually fly, but they do glide their way through the treetops in pursuit of their favorite munchies, like mushrooms, berries, seeds, bird's eggs and the occasional baby mouse.
To complete this feat, a flying squirrel takes a big leap and spreads out all four legs. Then his "patagium"--that's the furry flap of skin that stretches from his wrists to his ankles--fans out like a sail, enabling him to soar 20 to 60 feet. He uses his broad, flat tail for steering and speed control. These quick moves, combined with some sure-footed scurrying when he's landed, also help him squirrel away from his predators, which include owls and hawks.