I have been researching these critters for over a month, but I need to know if they're legal where I live.
I live in Kitchener, Ontario.
Ontario's Fish & Wildlife Conservation Act denotes either species of flying squirrel native to Ontario as a "Specially Protected Species". Therefore very much illegal to harm, trap, or keep in captivity for any length of time unless you have a special authorization (research, education for example). You may also have temporary possession of a flying squirrel if you are an OMNR-licensed small mammal rehabilitator in good standing. The fine for possession of a southern or northern flying squirrel by an individual is, if memory serves me correctly, up to $ 100,000. Should anyone be proven to have sold or is selling them, the fine goes up to $ 250,000. And trust me, you do not want to mess with OMNR. Their CO's "get their man" far more efficiently than the bloody Mounties!
Get a sugar glider if you really want, virtually the same thing just that they aren't rodents. Perfectly legal.
pets question and answers,www.5d2d.com I could never understand why anyone would want to keep a sentient animal that is active only at night, usually when one is asleep.
Anyway, now you know where to look to confirm my information. Or simply call your local OMNR office.
It will depend on your local laws, call up your animal control service, vets or police station and ask them. It will save you the trouble of having to root through bylaws and vague descriptions trying to figure it out yourself, they will know for sure.
I do know that it is illegal to keep most native species in the area you live, but I'm not sure which species are excluded from this.
You will also need to find a vet that will be able to care for it if you have to bring it in, as I recall they're very few and far between - mostly in Toronto.
Wow i didnt know squirrles could fly
