Squirrel Appreciation Day is January 21st. These mammals can range from half an ounce to four pounds and there are over 300 species worldwide. The most common breeds in Midwest are the fox, gray, red, and southern flying. Red, fox, and gray squirrels are diurnal, or active during the day, while southern flying squirrels are nocturnal. Contrary to their name, flying squirrels have extra skin on their sides which enables them to glide, not fly. Due to predation, lack of habitat, and vehicles, squirrels have a relatively short lifespan. Most squirrels live for approximately one-two years.
Squirrels generally make nests out of leaves, live in tree cavities, or reside in man-made structures. They are omnivorous and will scavenge for various food sources. A typical diet consists of nuts, fruits, berries, corn, tree buds, and seeds. Gray and fox squirrels prepare for harder times by burying food. Red squirrels will store food in hollows of trees and underneath the bark of trees. The National Wildlife Foundation estimates that some squirrels “may lose as much as 25% of their cached food to 
thieving members of their own species.” Squirrels play a key role in the reforestation of trees and other plant species. A study by Wilkes College showed that gray squirrels fail to recover approximately 74% of the food they bury. Many of the nuts and seeds later sprout and grow into trees.
Squirrels are constantly gnawing because their front teeth never stop growing. They can grow an average of six inches a year and they grow in a curved trajectory. Most tree squirrels have four incisors and sixteen molars while gray squirrels have 4 incisors and eighteen molars. Their incisors are coated in enamel that helps protect their teeth while keeping them sharp.
These quirky little critters can offer a considerable amount of pleasure for those that observe them. Buchheit retail stores have a variety of products to house, feed, and entertain the squirrels in your yard. We also carry a squirrel-themed décor and squirrel pet toys too. Happy Squirrel Appreciation Day!
