With fall officially here to stay (for the time being), you’ll no doubt spot a variety of animals scurrying about as they make their winter preparations. One such critter you’ll likely spy this season is the beautiful, yet feisty red squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus). A native to Alberta, this industrious rodent can be easily identified by its signature reddish coat that thickens considerably as cooler weather approaches. But did you know that the red squirrel is closely related to chipmunks? Or that a litter of red squirrels usually clocks in at four or five babies? Show
In case you can’t get enough of these lovable yet territorial rodents, here are six facts you may not know about red squirrels:
If you happen to see a red squirrel – or any injured wild animal, for that matter – that’s injured or abandoned, please contact AIWC at 403-946-2361 for assistance. By Giselle Wedemire, AIWC Volunteer Sources:
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HPAI and Bird feeder updateHighly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) hit hard in April when the first cases were detected in Alberta. We were receiving infected animals almost daily. From great horned owls, to snow Read MoreHighly Pathogenic Avian InfluenzaHighly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) has been detected in Alberta, as well as many other provinces across Canada. “Avian Influenza: Avian influenza is a contagious type A influenza virus that Read MoreBarred Owls (Strix varia)By Francesca Retuta Winter in Alberta Wintertime in Alberta is considered a fairly quiet season, as the drop in temperature acts as sound insulation as well as a signal for Can red squirrels jump?A. Squirrels have evolved with several anatomical adaptations that help them with their acrobatics. While some estimates of their achievements seem exaggerated, like the reported ability to jump 20 feet, they are obviously equipped to make vertical and horizontal leaps that would be superhuman.
How high can a squirrel jump up?Keep in mind that squirrels can jump up to five feet from the ground, and up to seven feet from a tree or house to your feeder. They'll also jump down from trees or a roof up to about nine feet.
How Far Can American red squirrel jump?That's basically the height of an average 7-year-old child. When jumping horizontally, squirrels can cover a distance of 9 feet. The incredible jumping ability of a squirrel is enabled by over sized back legs, double jointed ankles and sharp claws.
Are red squirrels aggressive?Red squirrels are notoriously more aggressive than the far more docile gray variety; some of whom can sometimes almost seem shy. That's not to say, however, that red squirrels are more active than gray ones, as both are quite the busybodies, with neither variety slowing down to hibernate during the winter.
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