Tree Planting MVPs: Squirrels are responsible for planting thousands of new trees every year. This happens because they bury nuts as "scatter hoarders" and then simply forget where they put them. Those forgotten acorns eventually sprout into oak trees.
Built-in Parachutes: A squirrel's bushy tail is a multi-tool. They use it for balance while running along thin branches, as a blanket in the winter, and as a parachute. They can survive falls from over 100 feet by splaying their limbs and using their tail to slow their descent.
180° Swivel Ankles: Squirrels are one of the few mammals that can climb down a tree head-first. They do this by rotating their hind ankles a full 180 degrees, allowing their claws to firmly grip the bark as they descend.
Deceptive "Spy" Tactics: Squirrels are very aware of being watched. If they think a thief (like another squirrel or a bird) is following them, they will perform "deceptive caching." They’ll dig a hole, pretend to drop a nut in, and cover it up—all while the real nut is hidden safely in their mouth.
Ever-Growing Teeth: A squirrel’s four front teeth never stop growing. They can grow up to 6 inches a year! To keep them from getting too long, squirrels have to constantly gnaw on hard nuts, bark, and—as many homeowners know—occasionally plastic or wood.
