Squirrel Awareness Month (2024)

Squirrel Awareness Month is a lively and engaging time to appreciate these clever and agile creatures. It invites us to take a closer look at squirrels in our parks and backyards, encouraging us to observe their playful antics and fascinating behaviors.

This month-long celebration aims to increase our understanding and appreciation of these small yet important animals in our environment.

Celebrated for their role in nature, squirrels play a vital part in forest regeneration. By burying nuts and seeds, often forgetting their locations, they help plant trees, contributing to forest growth.

Their activities ensure the spread of various plant species, highlighting their significance in maintaining ecological balance. Additionally, their adaptability to urban settings shows their resilience and resourcefulness.

Beyond their ecological contributions, squirrels are fun to watch and interact with. Known for their friendly demeanor, they often approach humans, making them a delightful presence in our daily lives.

Squirrel Awareness Month encourages people to feed them responsibly, plant trees, and share their encounters on social media, fostering a community that values and protects these fascinating animals.

History of ​Squirrel Awareness Month

Squirrel Awareness Month began in 1995, thanks to Greg Bassett. During a visit to the Grand Canyon, he had an unusual encounter with a squirrel.

This moment inspired him to start the Squirrel Lover’s Club. His goal was to spread awareness and appreciation for these often misunderstood creatures​.

The creation of Squirrel Awareness Month helped highlight the important role squirrels play in our environment.

Squirrels are known for burying nuts, which helps in forest regeneration. Many of these buried nuts grow into trees, aiding in reforestation. This behavior shows how squirrels contribute to maintaining healthy ecosystems.

This month encourages people to observe and appreciate squirrels in their local areas. By sharing photos and learning more about their habits, we can develop a deeper understanding of these fascinating animals.

Celebrating Squirrel Awareness Month also reminds us of the intricate connections within nature and the small yet significant role each creature plays.​

How to Celebrate Squirrel Awareness Month

Nutty Picnic Party

Host a nutty picnic party in your backyard or local park. Invite friends to bring a variety of nuts, seeds, and fruits.

Spread out blankets and watch the squirrels come to enjoy the feast. Make it a fun game to see who can spot the most playful squirrel.

Squirrel Safari

Grab your binoculars and set off on a squirrel safari in your neighborhood. Look for squirrels in trees, on power lines, and even sneaking around garden beds.

Keep a journal to note down quirky behaviors and cute moments. You might discover a new appreciation for these furry acrobats.

Crafty Critters Corner

Channel your inner artist and create squirrel-themed crafts. Paint rocks to look like squirrels, make squirrel masks or design squirrel bookmarks.

Share your creations on social media with the hashtag #SquirrelAwarenessMonth to inspire others to join in the fun.

Tree-Planting Extravaganza

Organize a tree-planting day to support squirrel habitats. Gather friends and family, choose a variety of native trees, and plant them in your local park or backyard.

Trees provide food and shelter for squirrels, ensuring they thrive for years to come.

Squirrel Storytime

Host a squirrel storytime session for kids. Pick books featuring squirrels as the main characters and read them aloud in a cozy setting.

Encourage the children to ask questions and share their own squirrel stories. This activity can spark a lifelong interest in wildlife.

Social Media Squirrel Stars

Become a squirrel paparazzo and capture photos or videos of squirrels in action. Post your best shots on social media platforms with engaging captions.

Highlight interesting facts about squirrels and encourage others to join in by tagging their posts with #SquirrelAwarenessMonth.

Squirrel Snack Station

Set up a squirrel snack station in your backyard. Fill feeders with a mix of nuts, seeds, and fresh fruits. Watch from a distance as squirrels visit and enjoy the treats.

Ensure that the feeders are replenished regularly, and enjoy the show.

Backyard Squirrel Sanctuary

Transform your backyard into a squirrel-friendly sanctuary. Add squirrel houses, plant nut-bearing trees, and create safe spaces for them to hide.

Observe how quickly they make themselves at home, and enjoy the added liveliness they bring to your yard.