What Does it Mean When a Squirrel Stands Up?
When a squirrel stands on their hind legs, it could be a warning to others or as a way to get a better view of their environment, It could also mean that the animal is feeling threatened. A squirrel might be trying to communicate danger. A squirrel may swish its tail, spit, or heat up its tail to try and intimidate a snake. Squirrels also stand up and stare at humans from fear, curiosity, or out of a need for food or as a way to communicate with them. Red squirrels may stand up to defend their territory. In some cases, a squirrel may stand up to stare you down and beg for food or water.
Table of Contents
Ground squirrels heat up their tail to intimidate poisonous snakes
California ground squirrels have developed a unique defense strategy against rattlesnakes. They heat up their tails, which they use to intimidate rattlesnakes by mimicking their infrared rays. Rattlesnakes can smell infrared radiation, so they heat up their tails when they approach, signaling that they’ve been discovered. This strategy makes them more likely to run away, but it is not the only reason for the squirrels’ defensive behavior.
Fox squirrels swish their tails to signal their displeasure
According to a new study, fox squirrels swish their tails when they are unable to get nuts, a behavior that is similar to the way humans kick a vending machine. The study, conducted at Berkeley, is the first to show that this behavior is common in free-ranging animals, and it highlights the role of frustration in problem-solving.
Ground squirrels stare at you to beg for food or water
Many people have encountered these adorable animals that stare at humans for food or water. Squirrels’ stares can be a sign of curiosity or fear. Squirrels have large parts of their brains dedicated to visual functions, such as detecting food and water. You may not have ever seen a squirrel this curious, but they are used to people and can often be found begging for food or water.
Red squirrels stand up to defend territory
One recent study has shown that red squirrels stand up to defend their territory. The study, published in the journal Current Biology, suggests that red squirrels share resources with neighbors, protect their winter cache and form coalitions to protect neighboring territories. The authors’ study relied on data from the Kluane Red Squirrel Project, which tracked 1,009 red squirrels for 22 years using ear tags.
Also Read: What does it mean when a squirrel puts her paw on her chest
Ground squirrels make kuk kuk kuk
When squirrels are disturbed or threatened, they produce a kuk – a series of low-intensity barks. It’s reminiscent of the screeching of a cat. The quaa is a slightly longer version of the kuk. The muk-muk is a lower-pitched version of the kuk. Both calls are meant to warn off predators.
Red squirrels stare at you in a dream
A dream in which red squirrels stare at you could have several meanings. It could indicate a return visit from a long lost relative or friend. It could also be an indication that you are over-planning your love life and risking hurt feelings. Alternatively, a dream in which a grey squirrel stares at you might signal a lack of confidence. Despite these symbolic associations, you should always act with caution when interacting with people.
Ground squirrels sleep with their eyes open
Most animals sleep with their eyes closed, including squirrels. This is for several reasons. One reason is to protect the eyes from debris. They are sensitive to light, and open eyes can be scratched by a variety of small animals. Another reason is to prevent the eyes from being scratched by debris that can crawl onto the eyelids during sleep. Insects also find their way into their eyes when they sleep.
What does it mean when a squirrel stands up?
The squirrel is trying to get a better view of its surroundings. Squirrels also stand up and stare at humans from fear, curiosity, or out of a need for food or as a way to communicate with them. Red squirrels may stand up to defend their territory. In some cases, a squirrel may stand up to stare you down and beg for food or water.

Jessica Watson is a PHD holder from the University of Washington. She studied behavior and interaction between squirrels and has presented her research in several wildlife conferences including TWS Annual Conference in Winnipeg.