What is the Behavior of a Squirrel? 
A squirrel’s behavior is not entirely predictable. There are several types of calls a squirrel makes, including intimidation, follow, and annoyance calls. However, a few common ones should be familiar. Here are a few:
Intimidation calls
Squirrels use various signals to communicate with each other, which makes them one of the most common animals in our environment. They use scent, visual cues, and vocalizations to send messages to one another. This article will look at the different signals that a squirrel uses and why they are useful for understanding squirrel behavior. There are two main types of squirrel calls. The first one is known as the kuk, and it serves as a generic alarm call. Squirrels will make kuks and quaas to warn one another of danger. The latter is used more often to signal an aerial threat, and kuks are a mix of both.
Squirrels on alert will either run away or fight back. Their body language will change depending on whether they perceive the threat as a friend or an enemy, and how well they understand their own situation. Some species are more aggressive than others. Red squirrels and California ground squirrels are territorial, while gray squirrels are friendly and will not engage in fighting unless they feel threatened. The resulting body language, however, may make it difficult for a squirrel to get away from a threat.
Follow calls
When a squirrel hears a potential predator, it can use its alarm call as a cue to flee. These noises are loud and repetitive, lasting for several seconds or more. Unfortunately, if a squirrel does not recognize a predator, the sound is not always an indication of danger. Most predators are very well-hidden, so following the calls of a squirrel can be tricky. However, there are some tips you can follow to avoid a potential encounter with a predator.
The following recordings were made of 15 free-living squirrels. The sound-pressure level of each call was 66.8 + 2.1 decibels when recorded at 0.49 m away. The dominant frequency was 48.6 kHz. The duration of each call was approximately 8 ms. Interestingly, the elation call and sleep call became less frequent as the squirrels grew older. But there is still a good chance of hearing the elusive creature at any time of day.
Annoyance calls
Squirrels have different call types. They may annoy others by making aggressive noises. These calls are also used by flying and ground squirrels. While some species produce these sounds for protective purposes, others may be used for annoyance. Here are some examples of annoyance calls:
Squirrels make an abrasive call if they feel threatened. This call is also used to discourage a potential predator. Most of these confrontations occur during the dispersal of juveniles. Eastern gray squirrels have home ranges that overlap, and when the juveniles leave the nest, dominant squirrels fight with the migrants in noisy tussles. The North American red squirrel uses these calls to mark territory when a predator approaches them.
The same behavior is shown in live-trapped squirrels. For example, fox squirrels and common gray squirrels tend to hang out on the same turf. Interestingly, they make a similar signal by arcing their tails. It is not entirely clear why squirrels make this kind of signal, but it does seem to be a form of expression. Annoyance calls are a form of communication that can indicate general aggression, predator attack, territory invasion, or Justin Bieber approaching.
Tail-wagging
A squirrel’s tail is flexible and long, so it has plenty of room to wag it. The faster a squirrel runs, the faster its tail will wag. Because squirrels are not monogamous, the fastest male will protect the female and chase away a rival male. He will also threaten to attack a rival female if it approaches too quickly. These are just a few of the behaviors that make tail-wagging such an endearing behavior.
The main purpose of squirrels flicking their tails is to warn other squirrels and predators away. It is the sentinel’s body language. It can be used to defend a territory, family, food source, or a nest. It is also a form of communication for squirrels. But why would a squirrel do that? Here are some other reasons why squirrels flick their tails:
What does a squirrel typically eat?
A squirrel will eat mostly nuts and trees but can also be found eating insects eggs and small animals.
Where do squirrels live?
In the wild squirrels can be found living in trees.
However if given the opportunity they will also build nests in attics or any other warm and dry area.
How do squirrels communicate?
Squirrels communicate through body language touch sounds and smells.
What is the average lifespan of a squirrel?
The average lifespan of a squirrel is around 6 to 10 years.
How big do squirrels get?
On average squirrels grow to be around 15 to 20 inches long including their tail.
What is the most common type of squirrel?
The most common type of squirrel is the grey squirrel.
What is the difference between a ground squirrel and a tree squirrel?
The main difference between a ground squirrel and a tree squirrel is that a ground squirrel lives on the ground while a tree squirrel lives in trees.
How many different types of squirrels are there?
In total there are around 285 different types of squirrels.
What are baby squirrels called?
Baby squirrels are typically called kittens.
How do squirrels mate?
Male squirrels will mate with multiple female squirrels and the female squirrels will mate with multiple male squirrels.
How often do squirrels mate?
Squirrels mate once a year typically in the springtime.
How many babies do squirrels have at a time?
Squirrels typically have between two and eight babies at a time.
How long does it take for a baby squirrel to be born?
It takes around six to eight weeks for a baby squirrel to be born.
What do baby squirrels look like?
Baby squirrels are typically born bald and blind.
They will grow their fur within a few weeks and their eyes will open around six weeks after they are born.
How long does it take for a baby squirrel to be independent?
Baby squirrels typically become independent around three to four months of age.
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.
