While most people associate flying animals with birds or bats, nature has some astonishing surprises. Across different species, several animals have developed unique ways to take to the air — whether by true flight, gliding, or airborne movement.

10. Wild Turkey

Wild turkeys are far more capable in the air than their farm-raised counterparts. These birds can fly in short bursts at impressive speeds up to about 90 km/h (56 mph) to escape predators or reach tree roosts. Domesticated turkeys, however, are bred for size, making flight nearly impossible for them.

9. Flying Snakes

Found in parts of Southeast Asia, flying snakes don’t have wings — yet they can glide through the air. By flattening their bodies into a concave shape, these snakes generate lift and float down from tree to tree using undulating movements.

8. Ballooning Spiders

Some spiders use a method called ballooning to travel through the air. They release silk threads that catch the wind and lift them skyward, allowing them to drift across long distances. This technique disperses spider populations but can be risky, as many don’t survive the journey.

7. Flying Squid

Certain squid species found near Japan can propel themselves above the water’s surface. By expelling water rapidly and extending their fins, they glide for short distances — a behavior likely evolved to evade predators.

6. Draco Lizards

Also known as flying dragons, Draco lizards use extended ribs and skin flaps to glide between trees. These reptiles can cover distances up to about 50 meters, navigating their forest habitats efficiently while avoiding threats.

5. Flying Fish

Flying fish don’t truly fly like birds, but they use their large pectoral fins to glide above the surface after escaping danger in the water. There are about 40 species known to perform these dramatic glides over tropical oceans.

4. Flying Squirrels

Flying squirrels don’t flap wings. Instead, they have a membrane called a patagium stretching between their limbs that lets them glide gracefully from tree to tree, sometimes over distances of 150 meters or more.

3. Gliding Ants

Certain ant species have evolved the ability to steer their fall when dropping from trees. These “gliding ants” can direct themselves back toward their tree trunk with remarkable accuracy, using visual cues and body control.

2. Chinese Flying Frog

Also called Rhacophorus or the flying frog, this amphibian species has webbed feet that act like parachutes, enabling it to glide between trees. Discovered in the 19th century, its unique adaptations help it conserve energy and escape threats.

1. Mobula Rays (Devil Rays)

Mobula rays, sometimes referred to as devil rays, are known for spectacular jumps out of the water that look almost like flying. They can leap as high as two meters above the surface — a behavior scientists believe may be linked to mating displays or communication.