Squirrels are ubiquitous rodents, commonly observed leaping between tree branches or foraging across lawns. This lifestyle, optimized for climbing and running, rarely brings them into contact with water, leading many observers to assume these small mammals instinctively avoid getting wet. However, when a water barrier presents itself, the question arises: can a creature so adapted to dry land navigate a pond or a stream?
The Simple Answer: Squirrels Are Capable Swimmers
The definitive answer is that yes, most common squirrel species, including the Eastern Gray Squirrel and the Fox Squirrel, are capable of swimming. This ability is a natural function of their mammalian physiology, though it is often a reluctant behavior reserved for necessity. Their bodies possess enough natural buoyancy to keep them afloat on the water’s surface. While they lack specialized features like webbed feet, their physical structure is sufficient for temporary water traversal. However, the specialized body of the Flying Squirrel, with its gliding membrane, makes it a poor swimmer.
Motivation for Entering the Water
A squirrel’s decision to enter the water is almost always driven by external pressure or a compelling need rather than leisure. The most common motivation is to escape a terrestrial threat, such as a dog or coyote. When cornered near water, a squirrel may view the temporary vulnerability of swimming as the lesser risk compared to capture on land.
Dispersal and Accidental Entry
Swimming has also been documented as a mechanism for dispersal or migration, particularly when food resources become scarce. In instances of population booms, groups of squirrels have been observed crossing large streams or rivers to access new territory. Accidental entry is another frequent cause, especially in residential areas where a squirrel may fall into a smooth-sided swimming pool. The creature must then swim to survive, often struggling because the manufactured walls lack the natural grip points found on the banks of a pond or river.
Technique, Endurance, and Risks
When a squirrel does enter the water, its technique is a simple, unsophisticated version of the “dog paddle.” It uses all four limbs in a coordinated, churning motion to propel itself forward and maintain its position on the surface. The bushy tail, which serves as a counterbalance during arboreal movement, acts as a rudimentary rudder, helping the animal steer and stabilize its body while paddling.
Despite this capability, squirrels possess limited endurance and are best suited for short-distance crossings. They expend energy quickly, and any attempt at a long-distance swim, especially against a current, can lead to rapid exhaustion and drowning. The water also poses a significant risk of hypothermia, as their thick fur becomes waterlogged and heavy, leading to rapid heat loss. A squirrel in the water is also vulnerable to aquatic predators, which can include large fish, snapping turtles, or water snakes.