Hobbies And Interests
Tree Habitats
Tree squirrels, including Eastern gray, Western gray and red squirrels, are largely arboreal and well-adapted to tree habitats, although they will forage for such food as roots, fungi and insects on the ground. The majority of the tree squirrel's diet -- bark, seeds, fruits, nuts and leaves -- can be found in trees. Squirrels store food for winter, often inside such natural structures as hollow trees. Although tree squirrels are well-suited to woodland habitats, their excellent climbing skills allow them to climb buildings. As a result, they also can be found living in the suburbs and city parks. In urban areas, food is often stored in man-made structures, such as car exhaust pipes.
Ground Habitats
Ground squirrels, such as Harris' antelope and rock squirrels, are best suited to ground habitats, where they excavate burrows. When temperatures are low and food is scarce, some ground squirrels hibernate in their burrows. In drier climates, ground squirrels may enter a state of dormancy during periods of drought. While tree squirrels gain protection from predators by living in treetops, ground squirrels rely on other defense tactics. Ground squirrels escape into burrows to protect themselves from predators and some produce a whistlelike sound to warn other squirrels when a threat is present.
Nests
Ground squirrels usually rear their young in burrows, although some species may construct nests at ground level. For example, the California ground squirrel builds nests on the ground or in rock piles.
Tree squirrels usually raise their young in round nests they have constructed in hollow trees or between tree branches from such materials as sticks, bark and moss. Tree squirrels in urban habitats also may nest in man-made structures. In extreme weather conditions, tree squirrels may use nests for shelter. Some, such as the red squirrel, may even nest below ground level if temperatures become very low.
Physical Adaptations
Squirrels have a range of physical adaptations that help them thrive in their habitats. For example, tree squirrels have long tails that help them balance when moving in trees and sharp claws to help them climb. Species, such as the northern flying squirrel, spend the majority of their time in trees. Such squirrels have skin flaps between their front and rear limbs that allow them to soar between trees, reaching distances of more than 150 feet. Ground squirrels use their strong claws for digging and defending themselves from predators. All squirrels have fur, which protects them from extreme temperatures.