Where Do Most Squirrels Live? In Wild or Urban Areas?
When you think of squirrel habitat, you think of them living in the wild. However, more and more of them are actually making their way into urban areas and even your home. Where are you more likely to find them, and why do they prefer one over the other?
Different Squirrel Habitats
In general, you’ll see that grey squirrels live on land, while red and flying squirrels live in trees. In the past, they would have preferred to stay in the wild, but as time goes on they’ve actually begun moving into urban areas. There are a few reasons why they have done this, so let’s see why they’re more likely to show up in your home.
Proliferation of Urban Environments
The first reason is that wild habitat for squirrel are dwindling. As urban environments spread, squirrels are facing widespread deforestation. Because of this, many are forced to find shelter in these urban environments. As their natural homes are removed, they head to the nearest place that can offer shelter. In many cases, that turns out to be your home.
Prevalence of Shelter
Something all squirrels need is shelter, and your home offers the perfect spot. You’ll have spaces, such as your basement, attic, or roof that are mostly undisturbed. They’ll be dark and enclosed spaces, and so they are perfect for squirrels. It gives them the best place to raise their young and hide from predators.
Availability of Food
There’s no denying that it’s easy for a squirrel to find food in urban areas. In many backyards, they can eat seeds and plants that you’re growing, and they’re not averse to climbing bird feeders in order to get at the food inside. There are many people who will happily feed squirrels in urban areas, too. As it’s so easy to find food, it’s easy to see why they stick around.
Absence of Predators
In an urban area, there’s a real lack of wild animals that would prey on squirrels. Foxes, badgers, and weasels are just some of the predators that they have to be wary of. If they’re hiding out in your home though, they’re going to be well protected. However, domestic cats and dogs are still a danger to them.
Disadvantages of Squirrels in Urban Areas
While squirrels in urban areas aren’t a problem in themselves, if they get into your home they pose more of a challenge. Firstly, you’ll see that they can cause quite a bit of damage to your home, leading to expensive repairs. They also carry diseases that are dangerous to you and your family. Finally, the noise of them living in your home is distracting, and you won’t want to put up with it for long. If you do find you have squirrels in your home, you’ll need to call a professional to help remove them.
Squirrels live in both wild and urban environments, but as natural habitats dwindle they are more likely to show up in your home. If you do find them, you’ll need to remove them to keep you and your family safe show up in your home. If you do find them, you’ll need to remove them to keep you and your family safe.
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