Animals that glide without wings

June 27, 2024

Credit: Pixabay

Flying squirrels, found in various parts of the world, including North America and Asia, have a membrane called the patagium that stretches from their wrist to their ankle. This membrane allows them to glide from tree to tree.

Credit: Pixabay

Flying Squirrels

Native to Southeast Asia, these lizards have elongated ribs covered by skin, forming wing-like structures. They can glide up to 30 feet to escape predators or move between trees.

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Draco Lizards

Some ant species, like the Cephalotes genus, have the ability to glide. They can steer their descent by adjusting their body posture, which helps them return to their home tree if they fall off.

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Gliding Ants

Found in warm ocean waters, flying fish can glide above the water's surface to escape predators. They achieve this by building up speed underwater and then using their pectoral fins to lift off and glide.

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Flying Fish

Colugos are found in Southeast Asia and are among the best gliders in the animal kingdom. They have a large membrane that stretches from their neck to the tips of their fingers and toes, and even their tail, allowing them to glide over considerable distances.

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Colugos

Several species of frogs, such as Wallace's flying frog, have webbed feet that they use to glide from tree to tree. These frogs are mostly found in the tropical rainforests of Southeast Asia.

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Gliding Frogs

Certain species of snakes, such as the paradise tree snake, can glide by flattening their bodies and undulating through the air. They are native to Southeast Asia and use this ability to move between trees and escape predators.

Credit: Pixabay

Gliding Snakes