This pet flying squirrel put on a performance deserving of an Oscar - playing dead with a broom to get his owner's attention.

Two-year-old Bobo knocked over the sweeping brush and then rolled over with it so it landed across his chest. With his wings stretched out, Bobo looked like he had been flatted by a large pole.

Hilariously, the cheeky rodent kept adjusting the handle of the makeshift murder weapon before returning to his pose to appear unconscious.

However, every so often, Bobo could be seen breaking character to see if anyone had noticed his rouse.

Owner Joe recorded her adorable pet as it played in the kitchen at her home in Taoyuan, Taiwan, on May 27.

She said: 'Bobo has unlocked new skills. He can do heavy-weight training and he has learned how to be an actor.'

Joe said that Bobo is two years and four months old and she has been keeping him as a pet since he was born.

She added: 'Bobo has his own personality just like a human. He is very smart but also mischievous. Mostly he likes to play games and get my attention.

'He sometimes watches TV with me, so that could be how he learned his trick.'

Flying squirrels are small, adorable creatures with big eyes and bushy tails. This makes them appealing to many people who are looking for a pet that is both cuddly and playful.

They are nocturnal but also highly sociable and intelligent and enjoy spending time with their owners.