Forest officer captures rare flying squirrel gliding gracefully through trees; video goes viral

Rare Flying Squirrel Caught Gliding in Forest Officer’s Viral Video. (Image: @shivgangal_ifs/X)

A rare glimpse of a flying squirrel gliding through trees has gone viral. The clip, shared by Indian Forest Service officer Shivakumar Gangal, showcases the squirrel’s graceful flight, leaving nature lovers in awe.

A Rare Moment Captured in the Wild

The video, posted on X, opens with a dimly lit tree. For a moment, there seems to be no movement. Then, the flying squirrel leaps from the tree, soaring through the air. It glides with remarkable ease before landing safely on another tree.

Sharing the clip, Mr Gangal expressed his amazement. "If you had told me this animal exists when I joined the Indian Forest Service two years ago, I would have laughed. Here it is—one of nature’s marvels—the flying squirrel. The take-off, the glide, the landing—every bit is a spectacle," he wrote.

If you had told me that this animal exists, 2 years ago when I got selected in the Indian Forest Service, I would have laughed. Here it is, one of nature's marvels - "Flying Squirrel". The take off, the glide, the landing, every bit of it is a spectacle to witness. pic.twitter.com/njwmpsD6KC

Related Stories

• Earth Day 2026 Theme: Date, significance and key details you need to know!
• Still alive at 15? ‘Herbie’, the rabbit from UK just broke a Guinness World Record — but how?
• NASA confirms a "bus-sized" asteroid to pass Earth on April 21—Is It Dangerous?

Shivakumar Gangal, IFS (@shivgangal_ifs) February 15, 2025

Since its release, the video has gathered over 31,000 views and countless likes. Wildlife enthusiasts praised the post, calling it a rare window into nature’s hidden wonders.

Wildlife Lovers React to the Viral Video

Social media users were quick to share their excitement. "Saw them 10 years ago in Karnataka forests," one user commented. Another wrote, "It’s wonderful seeing rare species in the wild, not just in books. Truly nature’s marvel!"

Others recalled their own encounters. "I saw one over three decades ago in Arunachal. They’re beautiful nocturnal creatures. Their bushy tails even help clean their surroundings," shared another.

Many also praised the quality of the clip. "Incredible capture! You don’t see this every day," commented one user.

Mixed Reactions Over Wildlife Filming

However, not all feedback was positive. Some users voiced concerns over disturbing wildlife. "Please don’t throw light on animals to film them. The squirrel got startled and ‘flew.’ Avoid this," wrote a concerned user.

Another echoed similar thoughts: "Why disturb them just for a video? Let them live peacefully."

Responding to the concerns, Mr Gangal clarified his intentions. "I appreciate your concern. But as a forest officer, my job involves documentation for conservation. We took this video with minimal disturbance," he replied.

Despite mixed opinions, the video continues to fascinate viewers, offering a rare look at one of nature’s most elusive creatures.