Typical Occupancy of a Squirrel Nest
Squirrel nests, commonly known as dreys, provide essential shelter from predators and harsh weather. Built high in tree branches or within tree cavities, dreys are central to a squirrel’s survival.
Outside of the breeding season, a squirrel nest is typically occupied by a single adult. This solitary habit is characteristic of many common squirrel species, such as the eastern gray squirrel. The primary exception occurs during the breeding season when a mother squirrel resides in the nest with her young. A typical litter size ranges from two to five young, known as kits.
Factors Influencing Nest Occupancy
Several variables influence the number of squirrels in a single nest. Seasonal changes play a significant role, with occupancy patterns shifting throughout the year. During cold winter months, multiple squirrels may share a drey to conserve body heat.
The nest’s purpose also affects occupancy. Some dreys serve as primary breeding nests for raising young. Others function as temporary shelters or “bolt-holes” for quick retreat from danger. Species-specific differences also contribute; while many tree squirrels are largely solitary, variations in social structure exist across the diverse squirrel family.
Nest Use Across the Squirrel Life Cycle
A squirrel nest plays a dynamic role throughout its life cycle. After birth, blind and helpless kits are entirely dependent on their mother within the drey. The nest provides a secure, warm environment for their growth and development. Their eyes typically open around four to five weeks, and their fur begins to thicken.
As young squirrels mature, they begin their first ventures outside the nest around six to seven weeks old. These initial explorations are short, and they return to the drey for safety and nursing. Young squirrels disperse from their birth nest between eight and twelve weeks, establishing their own territories and constructing new nests or finding existing cavities.
Do Squirrels Share Nests?
While adult squirrels are generally solitary outside of the breeding season, exceptions to this solitary nesting behavior occur. The most common instance of adult squirrels sharing a nest is during extreme cold weather. In these conditions, multiple squirrels, often related individuals, may huddle together within a single drey. This behavior is a survival strategy, allowing them to share body warmth and withstand low temperatures.
This temporary sharing for warmth is distinct from communal living, as it is not a permanent arrangement. Once the severe cold passes, these squirrels return to their individual nesting habits. This demonstrates a flexible social behavior driven by environmental pressures rather than a consistent preference for cohabitation among adult squirrels beyond the mother-offspring bond.