8 Nutty and Fun Facts About Squirrels

If you love to watch these furry critters in your yard, you need to know fun facts about squirrels. Learn how fast squirrels run, how high they can jump and more.

Squirrels Steal Food From Each Other

Courtesy John Pizniur

Squirrels are known for constantly foraging and hoarding food… and for stealing! They lose 25 percent of their food to theft by birds and other squirrels.

Check out the best squirrel proof bird feeders and 12 tips that work.

Enjoy a Special Squirrel Holiday

Courtesy Denise Maynard

Celebrate furry friends on January 21: National Squirrel Appreciation Day.

We found funny squirrel pictures you need to see.

Squirrels in the Big Apple

Courtesy Rhondalee Spiros

A handful of these mischievous creatures was first released in 1877 in New York’s Central Park, where the population has since flourished.

Do safflower seeds deter squirrels?

Squirrel Top Speed

Courtesy Judy Wroda

Squirrels are surprisingly fast; at top speed, they can run 20 mph.

Squirrel Feet Are Surprisingly Flexible

Courtesy Bill Hanch

More fun facts about squirrels — they really should get an action movie deal. Their superhero-like talent to reach seemingly inaccessible bird feeders comes from the ability to rotate their hind feet 180 degrees.

Learn what to feed squirrels (and how to peacefully co-exist).

Not All Squirrels Are the Same Species

Courtesy Tina Wiley / Country magazine

There are 285 squirrel species around the world and three over-arching kinds: ground, tree and flying.

How High Can Squirrels Jump?

Courtesy Daveq Swanson / Country magazine

Squirrels can beat out top Olympic athletes. Most gray squirrel types can pull off an 8-foot jump from a stationary position.

Find out how to create the ultimate backyard wildlife habitat.

Squirrel Teeth Keep Growing

John Gill

A squirrel’s four front teeth grow about 10 inches a year. (Gnawing keeps them short.)

Next, learn how to make a DIY squirrel feeder.