Why Is The Rock Squirrel Dangerous?
You may have heard of the dangers of rock squirrels, but have you wondered why they are so dangerous? After all, these animals are omnivores, and they carry tularemia and plague. In addition to starring at tourists, they also dig burrows and have the ability to transmit deadly diseases. Here’s what you need to know. Read on to learn more.
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Rock Squirrels are omnivores
The Rock Squirrel is a member of the squirrel family. This species consists of both males and females and eats a variety of foods. Rock squirrels are polygynous and have a yearly mating cycle. Females give birth to one to two litters each year. The gestation period is 30 days. Newborn rock squirrels stay in their mother’s burrow for six to seven weeks before emerging from the ground. After their first hibernation, females begin actively defending their territory until the time comes for breeding.
They dig burrows
This species of rodent is nocturnal. Its burrow system is extensive and includes multiple entrances. Rock squirrels are primarily vegetarian, though they are considered omnivores because they also eat insects, grasses, and fruits. Their burrow systems can be as long as six feet deep. The animals usually have a lifespan of four to five years, but they have been known to live up to ten years in captivity.
They stare at tourists
Many tourists have been bitten by a rock squirrel while visiting the Grand Canyon. They are native to the southwest and Mexico, but some have been bitten for pointing at them. The rock squirrel has been known to bite tourists – and even endanger them. Tourists can stay safe by using a camera to take a selfie of the animal. But beware! The rock squirrel is dangerous because it stares at tourists!
They are a food source for local predators
While many animals and plants provide a food source for rock squirrels, humans also eat them. While humans do not usually view these rodents as pests, the species has anti-predator behaviors. When they are near snakes, rock squirrels make menacing movements or throw debris at them. They also tend to sleep in high places and emit a musky odor.
They are part of the natural landscape of the Grand Canyon
While rock squirrels are part of the Grand Canyon’s natural landscape, some people worry that they might pose a threat. Though they are a common sight, they can be aggressive and have been known to attack tourists. Tourists should avoid feeding them as they may be prone to attack tourists. They are also a potential source of zoonotic disease. Never feed rock squirrels.
What are some of the dangers associated with rock squirrels?
Rock squirrels are known to be carriers of bubonic plague and hantavirus and can also transmit diseases to humans through bites or scratches.
They can also be a nuisance to property owners as they are known to dig and burrow in yards and gardens.
How can I avoid getting bitten or scratched by a rock squirrel?
It is best to avoid contact with rock squirrels whenever possible.
If you must handle one wear gloves and long sleeves to protect your skin.
If you are bitten or scratched by a rock squirrel wash the wound immediately with soap and water and seek medical attention.
How can I tell if a rock squirrel is sick or has hantavirus?
Symptoms of hantavirus in humans include fever headache body aches and vomiting.
If you have been exposed to a rock squirrel or its droppings and develop these symptoms seek medical attention immediately.
What should I do if I find a dead rock squirrel on my property?
If you find a dead rock squirrel on your property do not handle it or its carcass.
Contact your local health department or animal control agency to have the carcass removed.
I think there is a rock squirrel living in my home.
What should I do?
If you think there is a rock squirrel living in your home contact your local wildlife removal service or animal control agency.
Do not attempt to remove the squirrel yourself as they can be aggressive and may bite or scratch.
I’ve been seeing more rock squirrels in my neighborhood lately.
Is this a cause for concern?
Yes an increase in rock squirrel sightings can be a cause for concern as it may indicate an increase in the population.
This can be a problem for property owners as they are known to dig and burrow in yards and gardens.
If you see an increase in rock squirrel activity in your neighborhood contact your local animal control agency.
I just saw a rock squirrel in my yard.
What should I do?
If you see a rock squirrel in your yard there is no need to take any action.
These animals are common in many parts of the country and pose no threat to humans or pets.
However if the squirrel is acting strangely or appears to be sick contact your local animal control agency.
I think a rock squirrel might have gotten into my house.
What should I do?
If you think a rock squirrel might have gotten into your house contact your local animal control agency.
Do not attempt to remove the squirrel yourself as they can be aggressive and may bite or scratch.
I found a baby rock squirrel.
What should I do?
Finding a baby rock squirrel is not cause for concern as these animals are common in many parts of the country.
If the baby squirrel is healthy and appears to be well-fed there is no need to take any action.
However if the baby squirrel appears to be sick or injured contact your local wildlife rehabilitation center or animal control agency.
I think a rock squirrel is damaging my property.
What can I do to stop it?
If you think a rock squirrel is damaging your property the best course of action is to contact your local animal control agency.
These professionals will be able to assess the situation and take steps to remove the squirrel if necessary.
A rock squirrel keeps coming into my house.
How can I get it to stop?
If a rock squirrel keeps coming into your house the best course of action is to contact your local animal control agency.
These professionals will be able to assess the situation and take steps to remove the squirrel if necessary.
I found a rock squirrel in my pool.
What should I do?
If you find a rock squirrel in your pool there is no need to take any action.
These animals are good swimmers and will be able to get out on their own.
However if the squirrel appears to be injured or struggling contact your local animal control agency.
There is a rock squirrel in my tree and I can’t get it to come down.
What should I do?
If there is a rock squirrel in your tree there is no need to take any action.
These animals are good climbers and will be able to get down on their own.
However if the squirrel appears to be injured or struggling contact your local animal control agency.
I think a rock squirrel is attacking my pet.
What should I do?
If you think a rock squirrel is attacking your pet the best course of action is to contact your local animal control agency.
These professionals will be able to assess the situation and take steps to remove the squirrel if necessary.
I’m worried about the rock squirrels in my area.
Is there anything I can do to protect myself and my family?
If you’re worried about the rock squirrels in your area the best course of action is to take steps to prevent them from entering your home.
These include sealing up holes and cracks keeping food and garbage securely stored and removing bird feeders from your property.
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.
