Squirrels

Why to talk about squirrels?

Squirrels are animals known to all. About 200 species of squirrels live all over the world, except for Australia.

Like other rodents, squirrels' four front teeth never stop growing, so they do not wear out. Tree squirrels are the best known. They are often seen scampering gracefully and jumping from branch to branch. Other squirrels live in burrows or tunnels, where some hibernate.

Flying squirrels constitute a third species of squirrel.

Their lifestyle is similar to that of birds, living in nests or holes in trees. Although they do not actually fly, they float in the sky. They spread their legs and glide from tree to tree. The skin connecting the limbs to the body makes it look like they have real wings. These "leaps" that allow them to glide through the air can exceed 46 meters. Flying squirrels eat nuts and fruits, but they can also hunt insects and even small birds.

Whether they live in trees or in burrows, females usually have two to eight cubs. They are blind and completely dependent on their mother for two to three months. The female can produce several litters a year, so it is abundant.