Squirrels, common rodents in parks and forests, are known for their acrobatic movements through trees and across the ground. Their tree-dwelling nature often leads to questions about their abilities in water. Though not typically associated with water, sightings near ponds or rivers spark curiosity about their swimming ability.
The Aquatic Abilities of Squirrels
Squirrels are capable swimmers, employing a basic “dog paddle” stroke where they paddle with their front feet while their back feet trail behind. Their bushy tails, a defining feature on land, assist in the water by acting as rudders for steering and providing some buoyancy. While not streamlined like truly aquatic animals, their light body weight and ability to trap air in their dense fur contribute to their buoyancy, allowing them to keep their heads above the surface. However, squirrels are not built for long periods in the water, as their fur can become waterlogged, making movement difficult and increasing the risk of hypothermia in colder conditions.
Despite their swimming capabilities, squirrels generally do not prefer water and it is not their primary mode of transportation. Swimming is typically a short-distance endeavor, used when necessary rather than for recreation. They can achieve speeds of up to 11 miles per hour, though they tire quickly. While some reports suggest squirrels can swim up to two miles, most would not voluntarily swim more than a few meters.
Reasons for Taking a Dip
Squirrels typically enter water out of necessity, driven by specific circumstances. A common reason is to escape predators. If pursued by animals like hawks, foxes, or even domestic cats, a squirrel might dive into a body of water as a last resort to evade capture, as many predators may not follow them into the water.
Another significant motivation for swimming is to cross bodies of water to access resources. Rivers, streams, or ponds can act as barriers separating squirrels from essential food sources, potential mates, or new territories. In historical instances, large groups of squirrels have been observed migrating across wide rivers, such as the Mississippi and Connecticut Rivers, often in search of more abundant food following years of high acorn production. Accidental falls into water bodies can also necessitate swimming for survival, as squirrels might misstep or lose their grip while navigating their arboreal habitat.
Species and Habitat Influences
The swimming proficiency of squirrels can vary among different species. Gray squirrels and fox squirrels are generally considered capable swimmers, often utilizing water to cross narrow stretches or escape danger. Eastern gray squirrels, for example, have been known to swim across relatively large rivers when migrating to new locations. Thomas’s rope squirrel of Africa has even been observed submerging itself and swimming underwater.
In contrast, flying squirrels are generally weaker swimmers. Their gliding membranes, which stretch between their limbs and aid in aerial movement, can become a hindrance in water, making it difficult for them to maneuver effectively. While flying squirrels can swim if necessary, they tend to avoid water unless compelled by circumstances like escaping predators or reaching nearby food sources. Ultimately, a squirrel’s likelihood of swimming is influenced by its specific species and the presence of water bodies within its natural habitat.