Squirrels may be common garden visitors, but they are fascinating rodents with incredible traits and behaviors.

Here are ten intriguing facts about these bushy-tailed acrobats.

1. Largest and Smallest Squirrels

The Largest Squirrel

The Indian giant squirrel is the largest squirrel species, reaching an impressive length of up to 36 inches (1 meter).

The Smallest Squirrel

The African pygmy squirrel is the smallest species, measuring only 2.8–5 inches (7–13 cm) in length.

2. Ever-Growing Teeth

Squirrels have four front teeth that grow continuously throughout their lives. This adaptation ensures their teeth remain sharp despite the constant gnawing on nuts and other hard objects.

3. Types of Squirrels

Ground, Tree, and Flying Squirrels

Squirrels can be classified into three categories:

Ground squirrels live on the ground and burrow for shelter.

Tree squirrels are adept climbers and build nests in trees.

Flying squirrels glide through the air using flaps of skin that connect their limbs, creating a wing-like surface.

4. Nut Detection and Storage

Recognizing Ripe Nuts

Squirrels use their sense of smell to identify ripe nuts. They can even detect if an acorn or hazelnut has been hollowed out by weevils by its lighter weight.

Finding Buried Nuts

Squirrels rely on memory, scent, and visual clues like disturbed soil to locate their buried treasures.

5. Squirrel Nests

What Are Dreys?

Squirrel nests, known as dreys, are compact, spherical structures slightly smaller than footballs. They are made from twigs, leaves, bark, and grass and are typically built in the forks of tall trees.

6. Communication Skills

Using Calls and Tails

Dear Lykkers! Squirrels communicate through various sounds, including territorial barks and "quacking" noises. However, their tails play a crucial role as signaling devices, twitching when they sense danger.

7. Impressive Physical Abilities

Speed and Agility

Squirrels can run at speeds of up to 20 mph. Their padded feet cushion jumps from heights of up to 20 feet. They also use their fluffy tails for balance and as parachutes during leaps.

8. Oak Tree Helpers

Squirrels are essential for the spread of oak trees. By burying acorns, they unintentionally plant new trees when around 30% of their stored acorns are forgotten and left to sprout.

9. Red Squirrel Conservation

Red squirrels were once common in the UK but are now endangered. Their decline is due to the rise of the more robust grey squirrel population and the spread of the squirrel pox virus.

15 Interesting and Strange Facts About Squirrels You Might Not Know

Video by Zoologist

10. Unique Squirrel Species

Special Traits

The tufted ground squirrel of Borneo has a tail 130% larger than its body.

The Kaibab squirrel, found only in the Grand Canyon region of Arizona, has a striking pure white tail.

The Indian palm squirrel, with its distinct brown and white stripes, inspired a Hindu legend where Lord Rama left finger-strokes on its back as a blessing.

Squirrels are not just garden critters; they are incredible creatures with remarkable abilities and unique characteristics.