Introduction to Squirrels
There are a variety of animals that are in the world that we are able to adore and look at. But at times we overlook a few of the more simpler of the species. One animal that we see quite frequently – but do now understand much about is the squirrel.
Squirrel Classification
Family and Species
Squirrels are part of the Sciuridae family – also well-known as the rodent family. It is hard to think that something as lovely as this is connected to rats and mice. There are several various kinds of squirrels that include the gray, tree, and flying squirrels.
Flying Squirrels
Although they are referred to as flying squirrels this kind are only able to glide when jumping from one place to another.
Squirrel Diet
Digestive Needs
These animals are not able to tolerate cellulose that is in some foods. Because of this they need to eat up foods that have large amounts of fat, protein, and carbohydrates.
Seasonal Feeding – Spring
Around spring time many of the nuts that the squirrel buried are starting to shoot making them untouchable for them to consume. When this takes place they have to acquire the buds of trees to feed themselves.
Summer Diet
During the summer months they are able to eat nuts, fruits, fungi, seeds, green vegetation, and conifer cones.
Uncommon Diet Behaviors
It is possible to observe some species of squirrels that will eat up insects, small birds, eggs, snakes, and other rodents. However, they normally only do this when they are starving.
Squirrels and Human Interaction
Neighborhood Behavior
Many individuals are able to see squirrels running around their neighborhoods searching for food and climbing up and down trees.
Interaction with Humans
They can be friendly when you try to give them food and can frequently be seen attempting to steal food from bird feeders.
