But not everyone appreciates their bright-eyed, bushy-tailed charms. The abundance of squirrels in rural, urban and suburban neighborhoods can cause people to view them as a nuisance and disregard their special role in ecosystems. Every year, countless squirrels are killed simply for doing what's natural: looking for a meal and finding a safe shelter. There are many great solutions when dealing with squirrels.
In fact, a 2004 study of grey squirrels who were trapped and relocated from suburban areas to a large forest showed that a staggering 97 % of the animals either soon died or disappeared from the release area.
Unlike other squirrel species, tree squirrels don’t hibernate. They instinctively bury food in hundreds of caches to dig up during leaner months—some of those stored acorns and other seeds are forgotten, making squirrels one of the most effective (if accidental) tree planters on the planet.
Every day, more and more wildlife habitats are lost to the spread of development. Your gift can help create more humane backyards to protect all animals.
