About Squirrels
Tree squirrels come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and they may be found all around Canada. Squirrels have long, thin bodies, bushy tails, and big eyes. Their rear limbs are much longer than the front limbs, and each paw has four or five toes. The size of tree squirrels in Canada ranges from 10 to 70 cm. They have bushy tails, are good climbers, and can be rusty, brown, grey, or black in colour. Ground squirrels can be the same size as tree squirrels or much bigger. Flying squirrels have unique membrane body features that enable them to glide from one tree to another.
Habit
Ground squirrels with thin tails hibernate throughout the winter, but bushy-tailed tree squirrels are active all year. Tree squirrels live in tree hollows and build nests above branches. Ground squirrels, on the other hand, dig burrows underground to live. Squirrels can perform various functions with their tails, including shade in hot weather, warmth at night or in the cold, and balance when climbing or jumping. Squirrels are largely herbivorous and graze on seeds, nuts, berries, and acorns, however their diets vary significantly between species.
Habitat
Earth squirrels like grassy settings like open fields, pastures, and parks, and dig into the ground to make their burrows. Tree squirrels and flying squirrels, on the other hand, love deep forests and build their nests high in the trees. Because humans supply squirrels with reliable food and shelter, most species of squirrels choose to nest in and around residential areas.
Threats
Unfortunately, these pests do not always construct their houses outside. It’s not unusual to find nests in attics. Squirrels may nibble on electrical cables or wood once inside, leaving droppings all over the place. Ticks, fleas, and mites are among the parasites they carry. Some of these parasites vector and can spread disease-causing diseases in addition to their bites and irritations.
Prevention
Building fences above and below ground, sealing any entrance ways into dwellings, and removing all overhanging trees are all possibilities. Squirrels may rapidly turn violent when trapped, making trapping them exceedingly risky. A professional pest control service is required to safely and humanely remove a squirrel.
