Squirrels are common worldwide. These active creatures belong to the family Sciuridae, a diverse group of rodents. They are recognized for their sharp senses, including excellent vision. Squirrel species vary significantly in size, highlighting their adaptability to different living conditions.
Where Different Squirrel Species Live
Squirrels exhibit diverse habitats: tree-dwelling, ground-dwelling, and flying types.
Tree squirrels, such as the eastern gray, red, and fox squirrel, primarily inhabit forested areas, including deciduous and mixed forests, urban parks, and suburban environments with mature trees. These arboreal species rely on trees for shelter, food, and safety. Their strong hind legs and flexible ankles enable them to climb and descend trees headfirst.
Ground squirrels, including prairie dogs, chipmunks, and marmots, typically reside in open areas like fields, grasslands, deserts, and rocky outcrops. They are often found in pastures, golf courses, and cemeteries. Unlike tree-dwelling relatives, ground squirrels depend on underground burrows for protection and raising young. Some, like chipmunks, can climb trees for food or to escape danger.
Flying squirrels, including northern and southern species, are nocturnal and prefer dense coniferous and mixed forests with tall trees. Their distinguishing feature is a gliding membrane, called a patagium, which stretches between their front and hind legs. This membrane allows them to glide efficiently between trees, often over 150 feet. They use slight body adjustments and tails to steer.
Building a Home: Essential Habitat Elements
Tree squirrels often build nests known as dreys, spherical structures made from twigs, leaves, and other plant materials. These dreys are typically located high in tree forks or near the trunk, providing stability and concealment. Tree cavities, such as hollows or abandoned woodpecker holes, are preferred when available, offering superior protection from weather and predators, especially for raising young.
Ground squirrels create intricate underground burrow systems that serve as primary homes. These burrows can range from single tunnels to complex networks with multiple entrances, extending several feet in length and depth. Burrows provide refuge from predators and adverse weather, used for sleeping, raising young, and storing food. Some species, like the California ground squirrel, live in extensive colonial burrow systems.
Food sources are fundamental to squirrel habitat. Squirrels are omnivores, consuming nuts, seeds, fruits, fungi, and insects. They often cache food items like nuts for periods of scarcity. Diverse food sources directly impact their ability to thrive.
Water access is crucial. Squirrels obtain some moisture from their diet of fruits and vegetables. They also drink from natural sources like streams, ponds, and puddles, and can consume dew on leaves. In urban settings, they might use bird baths or other artificial water sources.
Habitats must provide safety and protection from predators and environmental elements. Structures squirrels build, whether dreys or burrows, offer cover from predators such as hawks, owls, foxes, and snakes. Their agility and speed, combined with habitat complexity, allow them to escape danger. Insulation from dreys and burrows helps regulate temperature, protecting squirrels from extreme heat and cold.