Two species of squirrels live on Long Island; the Eastern Gray Squirrel and the nocturnal Southern Flying Squirrel, which is rarely seen. Although they are mammals, they are technically rodents.

Do you find your neighbors annoying? They often can be, squirrels, that is. They like to take over your yard and help themselves to everything in sight. They are infamous for digging holes where they bury their food. These pesky neighbors think that your garden is their personal buffet! There is no such thing as a secure bird feeder. That goes for bird baths too. Birds don’t stand a chance!

You think you are in control of your yard but when it comes to squirrels, they decide their territory...not you!

SURPRISING FACTS:

The Gray Squirrel feeds every day, even in winter. It does not hibernate and is unable to conserve enough energy to survive for long periods without food.

A squirrel’s teeth never stop growing, and they are equipped to chew on absolutely everything...and they do!

Have you seen a squirrel jump? They can jump up to 4 to 5 feet vertically and 8 to 10 feet horizontally!

They can travel at 20 miles per hour...really! How do those short legs do it?

Squirrels use their long tails and sharp claws for balance while climbing, running and leaping.

**Chupa Chups -***Sweetbriar’s resident squirrel*

Did you know?

Sweetbriar has its very own resident Eastern Gray Squirrel, Chupa Chups. Chupa Chups came to us when he was a juvenile squirrel after the branch his nest was in was cut down. He fell and suffered a head injury, causing permanent neurological issues. You can find Chupa Chups in the Mammal Room where he plays with stuffed animals and keeps active all day long.

Anne Marie Tognella, Sweetbriar Volunteer