When learning new facts about animals, we often think about unusual and rare ones - but what about squirrels?
While they aren't that rare, and we tend to see them regularly, they can also be amazing and quite surprising.
Here are some facts about squirrels that might make you like them more!
Squirrel Species
There are many types of squirrels, not just the gray ones we often see. Some are red, black, or even striped. They come in various colors and sizes.
Amazing Jumpers
Squirrels are excellent jumpers. They can leap more than 10 times their body length, which is like a human jumping over a three-story building!
Hidden Food
Squirrels are good at hiding food. They bury nuts and seeds in the ground, but they don't always remember where they put them.
This forgetfulness can help trees grow because some buried seeds turn into new trees.
Flying Squirrels
Some squirrels, called flying squirrels, can't actually fly, but they can glide through the air.
They have special skin flaps called patagia that let them glide from tree to tree.
Speedy Eaters
Squirrels are fast eaters. They can gobble down a whole nut in just a few seconds.
This helps them stay safe from predators because they don't have to spend a lot of time out in the open.
No Hibernation
Unlike some animals, most squirrels don't hibernate during the winter. Instead, they stay active and rely on their stored food to survive.
Urban Adaptation
Squirrels are quite adaptable and can be found in cities and towns around the world. They've learned to live alongside humans and thrive in urban environments.
