Despite their explosive numbers, there are many things about squirrels that not everyone knows. And since there are so many of them, shouldn’t you you know a few interesting facts?
Ah, squirrels; there are seemingly endless populations of squirrels every year, everywhere you go. It’s possible that you’ve had a squirrel problem in your attic one year, only to find out they’ve come back the next. Despite their explosive numbers, there are many things about squirrels that not everyone knows. And since there are so many of them, shouldn’t you you know a few interesting facts? Read on to find out all about these furry critters.
1. Yes, they are everywhere.
Squirrels cover pretty much every corner of the globe in some shape or form. There are 285 species all across the world, and each has specific traits that allow them to live in extreme environments. The only habitat where squirrels do not frequent is the Earth’s poles. Then again, it’s too cold there for much of anything to live.
2. Squirrels make their own jerky.
Yeah. Like beef jerky, except with mushrooms. Squirrels, particularly red squirrels, hang up mushrooms to dry before the cold sets in so they can better store their food. It ends up creating a kind of jerky that they can weather the winter much longer than a fresh mushroom. And mushroom jerky cuts down on the risk of larvae or nematodes infecting the squirrel’s way of life.
3. They pretend to bury food.
You probably know that squirrels bury acorns so they can eat them later, but did you know that squirrels are capable of pretending to do this? It’s so they can ward off their predators or competitors from finding their food stores. They’ll mimic the action of digging and burying, and bury the actual food somewhere else entirely.
5 More of the Coolest Facts About Squirrels
Surprising traits from a backyard regular
1. Squirrels Are Memory Champs
5 More of the Coolest Facts About Squirrels
Squirrels bury nuts to store food for later—and they actually remember where most of them are. They use landmarks, spatial memory, and even their sense of smell to locate their hidden stashes. This skill helps them survive through seasons when food is scarce.
2. Their Teeth Never Stop Growing
A squirrel’s front teeth grow continuously throughout its life. That’s why they’re often seen chewing on wood, bark, or even wires—it’s how they keep their teeth from getting too long. Without this habit, their teeth could grow into their skulls.
3. They Can Fall from High Places and Walk Away
Squirrels are incredibly light and have strong legs, which means they can survive falls from trees, rooftops, and even power lines without serious injury. Their bushy tails also help slow them down during a fall.
4. They Communicate with Their Tails
Squirrels use tail flicks and twitches to send signals to other squirrels. These movements can warn about danger, express irritation, or even establish territory. It’s a simple but effective way to stay in touch without making noise.
5. They’re Surprisingly Fast and Agile
Squirrels can run up to 20 miles per hour and jump 10 times the length of their body. This agility helps them escape predators and navigate narrow branches and fences with ease.
Whether you find them entertaining or a nuisance, squirrels are built for survival. If they’ve found a way into your home, it’s best to have them removed safely and humanely.
Have squirrels invaded your home or attic? Shumaker’s Animal Control is here to help!
Call Shumaker Animal Control today. Shumaker Animal Control is a twenty-five-year veteran of the animal and pest control profession. We are the Kingsville rodent control experts and can help you return your house to a cozy pest-free home. If you have any questions about raccoon removal or other rodent control, contact Shumaker Animal Control by calling (443) 854-8072 or click heretoday! You can also follow us at our Facebook, Google+, Twitter, Pinterest, and LinkedIn.
