Squirrels are common animals, and their longevity is influenced by numerous factors. Understanding their typical lifespan helps shed light on the challenges they face in their environment.
How Long Do Wild Squirrels Typically Live?
The average lifespan of a squirrel in the wild is between five and six years, though some individuals may live up to 15 years. Many squirrels do not survive their first year, with high mortality rates among young significantly reducing the average lifespan. For example, only about 15 to 25 percent of young grey squirrels survive their initial year.
Key Factors Affecting Squirrel Survival
Predation
Predation represents a significant threat to wild squirrels. A variety of animals hunt squirrels, including birds of prey like hawks and owls, and mammalian predators such as foxes, coyotes, bobcats, and domestic cats and dogs. Snakes also prey on squirrels, especially younger or injured individuals.
Diseases and Parasites
Squirrels are susceptible to various diseases and parasites that can shorten their lives. Squirrelpox virus, often carried by grey squirrels, is particularly lethal to red squirrels. Other health issues include Coccidiosis, a parasitic gut infection, and external parasites like ticks and mites, which can transmit diseases such as Lyme disease.
Food Availability
Food availability plays an important role in squirrel survival, especially during harsh seasons. Scarcity can lead to decreased survival rates. Human-provided food, while seemingly helpful, can lead to dependency and an imbalanced diet, potentially causing health problems.
Environmental Hazards
Environmental hazards also pose risks. Traffic accidents are a common cause of death, particularly in urban and suburban areas. Habitat loss due to human development and severe weather conditions further impact their chances of survival.
Squirrel Lifespan in Human Care
Squirrels under human care, such as those rescued or in zoos, experience a longer lifespan than their wild counterparts. This extended longevity is due to the absence of many natural threats. For instance, grey squirrels can live up to 20 years in captivity.
Protection from predators, consistent food, veterinary care, and stable shelter contribute to their survival. Red squirrels, which live three to seven years in the wild, can reach 8 to 12 years in human care. This controlled environment mitigates the daily challenges wild squirrels encounter.
Lifespan Differences Across Squirrel Species
A squirrel’s lifespan varies by species:
Eastern grey squirrels, common in North America, live between 6 and 12 years in the wild.
American red squirrels, generally smaller, range from 3 to 7 years.
Fox squirrels, which are larger, live between 8 and 18 years.
Ground squirrels, living in burrows, tend to have a wild lifespan of 3 to 6 years.
Flying squirrels, known for their nocturnal gliding, live about 3 to 5 years in their natural habitat.