Squirrels, like many animals, can struggle in extreme heat. With rising temperatures and climate change, it’s important to know how to help them. To keep a hot squirrel comfortable, provide access to fresh water and create shaded areas for them to cool down. Simple actions can make a big difference in their well-being.
When temperatures soar, wildlife, including squirrels, can face serious challenges. Their body temperature rises quickly, leading to dehydration and heat stress. Understanding how to assist them can help ensure they stay safe and healthy during hot weather.
If you spot a squirrel that seems to be struggling in the heat, act quickly. By taking measures to help these little creatures, you contribute to the health of your local ecosystem. Squirrels play a vital role in their habitats, and caring for them is an important part of supporting wildlife.
Understanding Squirrel Behavior in Hot Weather
When the temperature rises, squirrels have unique ways to cope. Observing their behavior can help you understand how to assist them in staying cool and safe.
The Science of Splooting and Cooling Down
One common behavior in squirrels during hot weather is called splooting. This involves lying flat on their stomachs with their limbs spread out, similar to a human’s man-spreading. This position allows squirrels to maximize contact with cool surfaces, which helps them release body heat.
When you see a squirrel spread-eagled on the ground or a shaded area, it is not just resting; it’s actively trying to cool down. By exposing more of their body to cooler surfaces, they can lower their body temperature more effectively.
Identifying Signs of Overheating in Squirrels
It’s important to recognize when squirrels are struggling with heat. Signs of overheating include heavy panting, excessive grooming, or looking lethargic. If a squirrel appears weak or unsteady, it may be in distress.
Watch for behavior changes; they may seek shade more often or stay in their nests longer. If you spot a squirrel seeming overly stressed by heat, providing water and shade can make a significant difference in helping them recover.
Providing Relief to Overheated Squirrels
When squirrels get too hot, they need help to cool down. You can provide relief by ensuring they have a shaded area and water sources. These actions create a safer habitat for squirrels, especially in extreme heat.
Safe Ways to Offer Insulation and Shade
Create shaded areas in your garden using large leaves or towels. Place them in spots where squirrels like to rest. This insulation can help lower their body temperature. You can also use cloth to cover small structures or branches.
If you have any old blankets or cloths, consider draping them over furniture outside. This can create a cooler surface for squirrels to lie on. Remember, natural shade from trees or bushes helps too. Just make sure your yard has enough greenery from forests or woodlands to offer them shelter.
Creating Water Sources and Cool Retreats in Your Garden
Having water available is essential. Place shallow dishes with fresh water around your garden. Make sure to refill them daily. Squirrels often drink from these sources after playing.
Additionally, you can set up small cool retreats. Use a small box or container and fill it with dry leaves or hay. It gives them a cozy spot to cool off in hot weather.
You can also put a few rocks in the water to provide them with a cooler surface to stand on. This mimics the natural habitat where they find shade among rocks and trees in their forests or woodlands.
