12 Photos of Animals That You’d Never Expect Could Fly

1. Flying Squid

Yes, squid can fly—sort of. Using jet propulsion, species like the Japanese flying squid shoot out of the water at speeds up to 11 meters per second and glide for over 30 meters! These daring cephalopods create a dazzling spectacle at night, reflecting light off their moist skin. Why do they “fly”? To escape predators like tuna and dolphins or to save energy while traveling. Some fishermen have even found these squids unexpectedly on their boats. Did you know their flight has been compared to jet airplanes because of how efficiently they maneuver?