Squirrels are fascinating creatures that are among the most commonly seen animals in North America. They are small, nimble and incredibly agile, and they have captured the hearts of people all around the world. But despite their popularity, these furry creatures have a secret life that many of us don’t know about. In this article, we will share some surprising facts about squirrels that you may not have heard before.

1. Squirrels are incredibly fast

Squirrels are known for their speed, and their ability to run and leap from tree to tree is truly amazing. They can reach speeds of up to 20 miles per hour when they are running on the ground, and they can jump up to 10 feet when they are high up in the trees. They use their tails to steer and balance themselves while they are in the air, allowing them to make quick movements and changes in direction.

2. Squirrels are great at hoarding food

One of the most well-known characteristics of squirrels is their habit of hoarding food. Squirrels collect nuts and other food items during the fall and winter months and store them in various places, such as tree cavities and holes in the ground. They have an amazing memory that allows them to remember where they have hidden each food item, even months later.

3. Squirrels can be territorial

Squirrels are territorial animals and will defend their territory against other squirrels. They communicate with each other through various sounds and body language, and will often chase away intruders by making aggressive vocalizations and posturing.

4. Some squirrels can glide through the air

There are some kinds of squirrels, such as the flying squirrel, that are able to glide through the air. They have a flap of skin that stretches between their front and hind legs, which allows them to glide from tree to tree. They use their tail to control their movements and steer themselves in the air.

5. Squirrels have a wide range of diets

While nuts are a favorite food item for many squirrels, they are not limited to just eating these. Squirrels have a wide range of diets that include fruits, seeds, insects, and even small animals like insects and birds.

6. Squirrels can be quite vocal

Squirrels aren’t just chatty with each other, they can be quite vocal with humans too. They make a variety of sounds that are used for different purposes, such as warning others of danger or attracting a mate. Squirrels can also use their tails to communicate, with rapid twitches signaling agitation or annoyance.

7. Squirrels are excellent climbers

Squirrels have incredibly sharp claws and are expert climbers. They can climb trees, fences, and even buildings with ease, allowing them to explore their surroundings and escape from predators. Their sharp claws also help them to grip onto objects like nuts and seeds, making it easier to climb and move around.

In conclusion, squirrels are fascinating animals that have many hidden talents and secrets. From their incredible speed and agility to their impressive hoarding abilities, squirrels are truly amazing creatures that deserve our admiration and respect. It’s no surprise that people love these cute and furry critters, and with the knowledge of their interesting lives, we can appreciate them even more.