Ezo Flying Squirrel Photography Guide in Hokkaido, Japan

Photographing the Ezo Flying Squirrel

Photographing Ezo flying squirrels is both fascinating and challenging. No matter how many photos you take or how many times you try, it never becomes boring.There are many wonderful moments to capture: the instant a squirrel peeks out from its tree burrow, the sight of it balancing on a thin branch while eating, several squirrels lined up together on a branch, and many charming behaviors. And of course, there is the spectacular moment when they glide through the forest.

When the performance of the camera, the photographer’s luck, and the right natural conditions all come together, you may be able to take home a truly special photograph.

The Ezo flying squirrel lives in forests. Because it moves by gliding from tree to tree, it can usually be found in places where the forest continues without large gaps. Many Ezo flying squirrels live around Lodge Lucky Field. You can find them in the deep mountain forests covered with snow, as well as in the windbreak forests and parks of Obihiro City and Otofuke Town.

Ezo flying squirrels feed on tree buds, nuts, seeds, and flower buds. By learning about their favorite foods and habits, you may be able to find where they are.

On the snow, you can often see feeding traces left by Ezo flying squirrels, and around their tree burrows the snow is often stained with droppings and urine. By carefully observing their behavior patterns and learning more about how they live, you can get closer to the fascinating world of the Ezo flying squirrel.

It's so easy !  ask  and visit Yoshi !

Yoshi, the owner of the lodge, observes Ezo flying squirrels almost every day and has a deep knowledge of their habits and behavior. He also photographs them regularly, so he can give helpful advice on camera settings, recommended lenses, and tips for photographing Ezo flying squirrels.

You can see Ezo flying squirrels at zoos such as the zoo in Obihiro City and the Maruyama Zoo in Sapporo. However, seeing wild Ezo flying squirrels is much more difficult because they are nocturnal animals. They are usually active at times when it is so dark that it is hard to see them with the naked eye.Among the many tree burrows used by flying squirrels, there are sometimes families of Ezo flying squirrels that become active while it is still light. By finding one of these family burrows and visiting the same place every day, the squirrels gradually become accustomed to our presence. As a result, it becomes possible to observe and photograph them in daylight without causing them to be alarmed by people.

Ezo Flying Squirrel Photography Guide

Join a guided tour to see and photograph the wild Ezo flying squirrel in Hokkaido. I observe these squirrels almost every day near my lodge and know their burrows, habits, and favorite trees. With years of experience, I can guide you to the best places to watch and photograph them without disturbing them.

Come and experience the magical moment of seeing one of the cutest animals in the world in the snowy forests of Hokkaido.

Around the lodge, you can see not only Ezo flying squirrels but also other familiar wildlife such as the long-tailed tit, Hokkaido owl, and Ezo red squirrel.If we travel a short distance by car, there are also chances to see species such as the black woodpecker, mountain hawk-eagle, Steller’s sea eagle, hazel grouse, and goldcrest.

We can create a custom-made guiding plan based on each guest’s interests and wishes.

For details about pricing, recommended seasons, camera equipment, winter clothing, and rental options, please feel free to contact us by email. We will be happy to discuss and help plan your visit.

Lodge Lucky Field is a small and cozy lodge surrounded by the beautiful nature of Hokkaido. Located close to excellent wildlife fields, it is the perfect base for observing and photographing animals such as the Ezo flying squirrel. Many wild animals live around the lodge, allowing guests to experience nature just steps away from the door. Enjoy a peaceful stay while exploring the forests and wildlife of Tokachi.