Yes, squirrels can swim, although this aquatic ability is almost always a necessity for survival rather than a recreational choice. These familiar rodents are not naturally adapted for life in the water, but they possess the physical capability to propel themselves across small bodies of water. Swimming is a last-resort behavior, typically triggered by a sudden threat or an urgent need to reach a distant resource. While they are competent enough to cross a river or pond, prolonged exposure to water can quickly become dangerous.
The Mechanics of Squirrel Swimming
Squirrels utilize a basic “doggy paddle” technique, propelling themselves through the water with rhythmic movements of all four limbs. Their strong hind legs, adapted for jumping and climbing, are effective for generating forward movement in the water. They are naturally buoyant, which helps them maintain their head above the surface for continuous breathing.
A squirrel’s bushy tail plays a significant role in their aquatic navigation, acting as a rudder for steering and balance. Its position helps stabilize the animal as it paddles. Despite their ability, squirrels are not streamlined for efficient aquatic movement and are limited to short distances.
Extended periods in the water are hazardous due to the risk of exhaustion and hypothermia. Their dense fur can quickly become waterlogged, weighing the animal down and leading to a rapid drop in body temperature. Once wet and chilled, the squirrel may struggle to recover, making long swims a high-risk gamble.
Motivations for Entering the Water
A squirrel’s decision to enter the water is rarely voluntary and usually stems from a powerful survival impulse. The most frequent motivation is escaping an immediate threat, as a body of water can serve as a temporary barrier against land-based predators. For a squirrel being pursued, diving into a pond or stream may be the only available route to safety.
Migration and resource acquisition are also significant drivers for aquatic travel, particularly in species like the Eastern Gray Squirrel. Historically, large groups of squirrels have been observed swimming across rivers and lakes in search of new territories with better food sources. This behavior is driven by population pressure or a scarcity of food in their current habitat.
Squirrels may also swim to access isolated food caches or to expand their foraging range across small water obstacles. The act of swimming is a means of overcoming an environmental barrier to reach a desired destination.
Aquatic Behaviors Across Different Species
The proficiency and willingness to enter the water vary significantly across the diverse species within the squirrel family, Sciuridae. The Eastern Gray Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) is among the most well-documented swimmers and is known to cross wide rivers when dispersing. Eastern Fox Squirrels (Sciurus niger) are also capable swimmers, and their aquatic behavior is occasionally observed in riparian habitats during fall dispersal.
In contrast, other species are far less comfortable or capable in water. Flying squirrels, which are nocturnal and primarily glide between trees, are considered less adept at swimming. Their patagium, the loose flap of skin used for gliding, is not adapted for aquatic movement and can hinder them in the water.
Ground squirrels, such as those that hibernate, are generally less likely to encounter water bodies that require swimming. Their primary focus remains on burrowing and terrestrial foraging. While the ability to paddle is a shared characteristic across many squirrel types, the frequency of swimming remains low, confirming it as a specialized survival skill rather than a normal part of their daily life.