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There are
over 365
species of
squirrels in
seven
families.
They include
the tree
squirrel,
ground
squirrel,
and flying
squirrel,
plus many
squirrel-like
mammals such
as the
gopher,
ground hog,
and prairie
dog.
It is the
largest
group of
living
mammals on
Earth.
Across the
United
States, the
squirrels
that most
often
frequent
backyards
include:
gray, brown,
fox and red
squirrels.
An adult
squirrel
normally
lives alone.
Squirrels
will, in
severe cold,
share their
nest with
other
squirrels to
conserve
body heat.
Once the
temperature
rises, the
guests will
be on their
way.
In the
summer,
squirrels
are most
active two
to three
hours after
sunrise, and
then they
rest in the
afternoon,
resuming
activity
again two
hours before
sunset. A
squirrel
will retire
to its nest
well before
dark and
rarely leave
the nest in
the dark. In
the winter,
a squirrel
will
complete
activities
between dawn
and midday,
and remain
around the
nest until
the next
day.
Squirrels
are the most
active in
late winter
when mating
season
begins.
Males will
chase
females and
chase off
other
suitors.
This ritual
of chasing
occurs
through the
trees at top
speed, while
performing
some of the
most
breathtaking
acrobatics
imaginable.
Providing
feeders for
squirrels
allows you
to witness
these
acrobatics
in your
backyard.
Enjoy the
show. |
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Wild
Birds Etc 
