Squirrels are a familiar sight in many backyards and parks, often seen scampering up tree trunks or foraging beneath branches. These small rodents have a profound reliance on trees, which serve as the foundation for their survival and daily activities. Their close association with trees is fundamental to their existence.
Why Squirrels Live in Trees
Trees offer squirrels essential elements for their survival: shelter, food, and safe avenues for movement. They use the elevated structure of trees to protect themselves from predators, both ground-based and aerial. Squirrels construct nests called dreys from leaves and twigs within tree branches, or use natural tree cavities for sleeping, raising their young, and seeking refuge from harsh weather.
Beyond shelter, trees are a primary food source for many squirrel species. Squirrels forage directly from trees for nuts, seeds, buds, and bark, depending on the season and tree species. The interconnected canopies of trees also create a network, allowing squirrels to travel safely and efficiently between feeding grounds and nesting sites, and providing elevated vantage points to survey their surroundings for potential threats or new food opportunities.
Characteristics of Preferred Trees
Squirrels generally prefer trees offering structural integrity, nesting opportunities, and reliable food sources. Mature, sizable trees are favored for their robust branches, supporting nests and providing ample cover. Older trees often develop natural cavities or hollows, ideal insulated den sites for squirrels, sometimes even utilizing abandoned woodpecker nests.
Dense, interconnected branch structures are also desirable, creating easy pathways for swift movement and stable platforms for leaf nests. Natural cavities or abandoned woodpecker holes are important, offering secure, insulated den sites crucial for overwintering and raising young. Squirrels often choose trees within a larger arboreal network or near human structures like fences or power lines, allowing for extended travel and quick escape.
Common Tree Species
Many tree species are commonly inhabited by squirrels due to their specific benefits. Oak trees are a favored choice, primarily because they produce abundant acorns, a significant food source. Their strong branches also provide sturdy platforms for nests and movement. Gray squirrels, for instance, are commonly found in oak-hickory forests.
Maple trees also support squirrel populations, offering protein-rich seeds (samaras) as a food source, particularly in the spring. Squirrels also consume maple buds and lick sweet sap. Pine and fir trees, especially coniferous forests, are important habitats for species like the red squirrel, which primarily consumes conifer seeds from their cones. Their dense evergreen needles provide year-round cover and shelter.
Hickory and walnut trees are highly sought after for their high-value nuts, a primary and nutritious food source for squirrels. These trees are often found in mixed hardwood forests where squirrels thrive. Other fruit or nut-bearing trees, such as dogwood, black cherry, and elm, also offer seasonal food or suitable structural elements, further diversifying the types of trees squirrels inhabit.