Squirrels are a common sight in the United States, with over 200 different species found across the country. These adorable creatures are known for their bushy tails, quick movements, and playful antics. While they may be considered pests by some, many people find squirrels to be charming and entertaining animals to have around. In this article, we will explore the different types of squirrels found in the US and how they relate to pets.
Types of Squirrels in the US
1. Eastern Gray Squirrel:
The Eastern Gray Squirrel is one of the most common species of squirrels found in the US. They are known for their gray fur and white underbellies. These squirrels can be found in forests, parks, and urban areas across the country.
2. Fox Squirrel:
The Fox Squirrel is another common species of squirrel in the US. They are larger than the Eastern Gray Squirrel and have a reddish-brown fur color. Fox Squirrels can be found in wooded areas and are known for their acrobatic abilities.
3. Red Squirrel:
The Red Squirrel is a smaller species of squirrel with a reddish-brown fur color. They are commonly found in pine forests and are known for their high-pitched chirping sounds.
4. Flying Squirrel:
The Flying Squirrel is a unique species of squirrel that has a flap of skin between its legs that allows it to glide from tree to tree. They are nocturnal creatures and can be found in forests across the US.
5. Ground Squirrel:
Ground Squirrels are burrowing animals that can be found in open grasslands and meadows. They are known for their distinctive stripes and are often considered pests by farmers and gardeners.
6. Douglas Squirrel:
The Douglas Squirrel is a small species of squirrel found in the western US. They have a grayish-brown fur color and are known for their loud vocalizations.
7. California Ground Squirrel:
The California Ground Squirrel is a common species found in California and other western states. They are known for their burrowing behavior and can be found in open grasslands and meadows.
Trends Related to Squirrels as Pets
1. Increase in Pet Squirrels:
There has been a growing trend in recent years of people keeping squirrels as pets. While it is important to note that squirrels are wild animals and may not make suitable pets for everyone, some individuals have found joy in caring for these creatures.
2. Squirrel-proofing Homes:
With the increase in pet squirrels, there has also been a trend of homeowners squirrel-proofing their properties. This may include installing barriers to prevent squirrels from entering attics or sealing off entry points to prevent them from nesting in crawl spaces.
3. Squirrel Feeding Stations:
Some pet owners have taken to setting up squirrel feeding stations in their yards to attract wild squirrels. This can provide entertainment for both the squirrels and the humans watching them.
4. Squirrel Enrichment Activities:
Just like other pets, squirrels benefit from enrichment activities to keep them mentally and physically stimulated. Some pet owners have taken to setting up obstacle courses or providing toys for their pet squirrels to play with.
5. Squirrel Training:
Believe it or not, some pet owners have successfully trained their pet squirrels to perform tricks or tasks. While squirrels are notoriously independent animals, with patience and positive reinforcement, they can be taught to do simple behaviors.
6. Squirrel Socialization:
Squirrels are social animals in the wild, so some pet owners have taken to socializing their pet squirrels with other animals or even with other squirrels. This can help prevent loneliness and provide mental stimulation for the pets.
7. Squirrel Rehabilitation:
There has been a trend of individuals rehabilitating injured or orphaned squirrels and releasing them back into the wild. This can be a rewarding experience for those who are passionate about wildlife conservation.
Common Concerns and Answers Related to Squirrels as Pets
1. Can squirrels be kept as indoor pets?
While squirrels can technically be kept as indoor pets, it is not recommended. Squirrels are wild animals and require a lot of space and stimulation to thrive. Keeping them indoors can lead to stress and behavioral issues.
2. Are squirrels legal to keep as pets?
The legality of keeping squirrels as pets varies by state and local laws. It is important to check with your local wildlife authorities to ensure that you are not breaking any laws by keeping a squirrel as a pet.
3. What do pet squirrels eat?
Pet squirrels should be fed a diet that closely resembles their natural diet in the wild. This may include nuts, fruits, vegetables, and seeds. It is important to provide a balanced diet to ensure their health and well-being.
4. Do squirrels need to be vaccinated?
Squirrels do not require vaccinations like dogs or cats. However, it is important to provide proper veterinary care for pet squirrels to ensure they are healthy and free from parasites.
5. How do you house a pet squirrel?
Pet squirrels should be provided with a large enclosure that mimics their natural habitat. This may include branches for climbing, nesting materials, and hiding spots. It is important to provide plenty of enrichment to keep them mentally and physically stimulated.
6. Can pet squirrels be potty trained?
While it may be possible to train a pet squirrel to use a litter box, it is not always successful. Squirrels are naturally inclined to dig and bury their waste, so potty training may be challenging.
7. Do pet squirrels need companionship?
Squirrels are social animals in the wild and may benefit from having a companion. However, it is important to introduce squirrels to each other slowly and carefully to prevent aggression.
8. Are pet squirrels destructive?
Squirrels have a natural instinct to chew and gnaw, so they may be destructive to furniture, wires, and other household items. Providing plenty of chew toys and enrichment can help redirect their chewing behavior.
9. Can pet squirrels be trained to perform tricks?
While squirrels are intelligent animals, training them to perform tricks can be challenging. With patience and positive reinforcement, some pet owners have successfully taught their squirrels to do simple behaviors.
10. How do you bond with a pet squirrel?
Bonding with a pet squirrel takes time and patience. Spending quality time with your pet, providing them with treats, and engaging in interactive play can help strengthen your bond.
11. Are pet squirrels prone to health issues?
Like any pet, squirrels may be prone to health issues such as dental problems, parasites, and obesity. It is important to provide proper veterinary care and monitor your pet squirrel’s health closely.
12. Do pet squirrels need exercise?
Squirrels are active animals and require plenty of exercise to stay healthy. Providing them with opportunities to climb, jump, and explore can help fulfill their natural instincts.
13. Can pet squirrels be leash trained?
While it may be possible to leash train a pet squirrel, it is not recommended. Squirrels are fast and agile animals, and may be easily startled while on a leash.
14. What do you do if you find an injured squirrel?
If you find an injured squirrel, it is important to contact a wildlife rehabilitator or veterinarian for assistance. Do not attempt to care for the squirrel yourself, as they require specialized care.
Summery:
In conclusion, squirrels can make fascinating and entertaining pets for those willing to put in the time and effort to care for them properly. While they may not be suitable for everyone, with the right knowledge and resources, pet squirrels can thrive in a domestic setting. Whether you choose to keep a pet squirrel or simply enjoy watching them frolic in your yard, these charming creatures are sure to bring joy to all who encounter them.