I took a few pictures of the resident squirrel today sitting outside on a rock covered with snow. We had a little bit of sun earlier, so I think all the critters came out to enjoy it. Did you know that American red squirrels are also known as pine squirrels, chickarees, and fairydiddles? I didn't know that. Fairydiddles? Bizarre. Did you also know that females can mate with 4-16 males? I didn't know that either, but it sure explains all the chattering I hear outside.
Also, did you know that only about 22% of red squirrels live past age one? The average lifespan is about 2.3 years. So, think about that. If they're lucky to live past age one, not much more time goes by before things start looking grim again. They can live longer, up to eight years, but it's not the average. Some people hate them, but I think they're adorable.
We like watching squirrels around here, too. I didn't know any of those squirrel facts.
ReplyDeleteI don't think she's too happy today. We've gotten about 5 inches of new snow since this morning. She's got the seeds all covered up with a mound of grass and junk, but now it looks like an igloo with the snow. :)
ReplyDeleteI had no idea what the lifespan of squirrel is. With that kind of mortality, I'm surprised I don't see more squirrel carcasses lying around!
ReplyDeleteYeah, I know what you mean. I've had one come up on my deck while he/she was dying. That was an AWFUL day. The poor thing just stayed there all day before finally disappearing. Must have felt safe or something. :(
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