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Why are Squirrels So Skittish?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Squirrels are skittish because they are constantly under threat from predators. In the wild, squirrels are preyed upon by birds of prey, snakes, and other mammals. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
As a result, they have developed a natural wariness of anything that moves quickly or makes sudden movements. This wariness helps them to avoid being caught and eaten.<\/p>\n\n\n
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<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nWhy Are Squirrels So Jittery?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The key reason why squirrels are so jittery is that they must safeguard their food resources. They safely store their snacks for the winter when there is little food. If a predator discovered their storage, it would mean the end for the squirrels. In addition to developing keen senses to identify food and predators, squirrels have developed techniques to hide their food stash. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
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- They bury their food in the ground. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
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- And store their food in a tree cavity or drey<\/a> (nest).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Why Are Squirrels Afraid of Humans?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
In urban areas, squirrels face different predators, such as cars, dogs, and cats. However, they still retain their natural wariness, which leads them to be skittish around humans. This can make it difficult for people to approach or catch squirrels, but it also helps to keep them safe from harm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Why Are Squirrels So Twitchy?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Squirrels are constantly looking around with their heads in the air. They are always on the hunt for food and looking out for predators. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Because predators such as birds of prey and snakes are always looking for squirrels to eat as a meal. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Squirrels have developed keen senses that help them detect danger. They have a unique organ in their nose that helps them smell if there is danger nearby. This special sense comes in handy because predators such as birds of prey and snakes are always looking for squirrels to eat<\/a> as a meal. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In addition to their unique nose, squirrels have special eyesight called peripheral vision. Their eyes are situated to detect predators because they can see almost 360 degrees without having to move their heads. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Peripheral Vision<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Their eyes are located on the sides of their head, giving them a wide range of view. This allows them to see predators and other potential threats from all angles, giving them a better chance of survival.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThey have a special adaptation that allows them to do this, called “periscoping.” This adaptation gives them the ability to see in all directions without moving their head or body. Squirrels have very good depth perception and can see objects clearly at a distance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Their specially adapted senses make for an elaborate defense system.<\/p>\n\n\n
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A Squirrel’s Peripheral Vision – Monocular vision<\/strong> is where one
eye sees independently from the other. Binocular vision<\/strong> is where both eyes focus together.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nSquirrels Have an Elaborate Defense System<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
To keep one step ahead of predators, squirrels have developed an elaborate defense system. They have various defense mechanisms, such as playing dead and escaping up a nearby tree.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Defense Mechanism: Playing Dead<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
- And store their food in a tree cavity or drey<\/a> (nest).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n