The southern flying squirrel is a natural glider
The flying squirrel is an elusive creature, but is instantly recognizable from its gliding membrane, the flap of loose and stretchy skin extending from its wrist to its ankle. This little mammal soars through the trees to avoid predators, and has its flight paths perfected, using slight movements of its legs to steer, and its tail as a brake.
The flying dragon is not just a mythical monster
The Draco lizard needs to avoid the forest floors of its Southeast Asia habitat, where predators lie in wait for tiny reptile snacks. Instead, the Draco has evolved to take to the air, using a set of extended ribs covered in a generous layer of skin. They can unfold these appendages to form ‘wings’ and glide up to nine meters (29.5 feet) through the air, steering themselves with their long tails.
