7 interesting curiosities about the squirrels

These small mammals have incredible habits, which go beyond what the cute videos on social networks show

Scoiacili are small mammals of rodents of the Sciuridae family and are among the most adorable and charismatic wild animals in the world. With large eyes, hairy queues and curious behavior, they are frequent presence in parks, forests and even urban environments. In recent years, they have earned even more popularity on social networks with videos in which they seem to eat with their legs, clean or interact with humans.

Despite the fame of the cute, the squirrels are much more than this. They have complex behaviors, impressive skills and contribute to nature in surprising ways. So check some curiosities about them!

1. The teeth of the squirrels never stop growing

The squirrels, like everyone else rodentsThey have incisive teeth that continually grow for life. This is because the dental nail polish is extremely resistant and the constant friction with Havi foods would not be enough to completely wear it. To prevent them from being too large and damaging the diet, they launch objects such as branches, trees and nuts.

2. They hide food to guarantee food in winter

With a strong survival instinct, the squirrels practice “Cachetto“That is, the habit of hiding seeds, walnuts and fruit in various places. This usually occurs in autumn, as a way to guarantee food during the winter, when the natural offer is scarce. Albeit food on the ground or hide between the roots and the branches of the trees. Thanks to their acute smell and the spatial memory developed, they can identify part of these places even after weeks.

3. Forget hiding places helps nature

As efficient as they may be, squirrels cannot remember all the places where they have maintained food. It is estimated that they forget about 25% of the hiding places. This may seem like a failure, but it benefits the environment. TO seed Forgotten germination and contribute to the growth of new trees, helping to regenerate forests and maintaining the balance of ecosystems.

4. The tail has multiple important functions

The tail of the squirrels, long and hairy, is not just to give the charm. It has practical and vital functions: aid in balance during jumps and races, acts as a thermal blanket on cold days and even protects from rain, like an improvised umbrella. In addition, it is an important communication tool. By moving it quickly, these animals report the danger to other close individuals.

5. They can turn the ankles to climb carefully

One of the physical skills Curious of the squirrels is the rotation of the rear ankles up to 180 degrees. This allows them to turn back and grab the surfaces even when they are upside down. This anatomical adaptation is fundamental for life in trees as it guarantees adhesion and safety in high branches and vertical trunks.

6. There are over 270 species of squirrels in the world

Squirrels are divided into more than 270 different species, distributed by almost all continents, except Antarctica and Australia. These species are classified in three large groups: Arborei squirrels, which live and build nests on trees; land squirrels, who live on tanes on the ground and often in the colonies; And the flying squirrels, which can plan the use of a membrane between the legs.

7. Flying squirrel planes, but don’t fly

Despite the name, flying squirrels do not have wings and are unable to fly like birds. They have a membrane called Paten, which extends between the front and rear limbs, allowing them to slide from one tree to another. These vegetable flights can reach up to 90 meters away. The ability is used to escape predators, to watch food And move quickly among the tops of the trees.

Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.