Squirrel Appreciation Day

Squirrel Appreciation Day is celebrated on January 21st of each year. The holiday was created by Christy Hargrove, a wildlife rehabilitator in North Carolina, in 2001 to raise awareness about the importance of squirrels in the ecosystem and to encourage people to appreciate these cute and often misunderstood animals. Squirrels are members of the rodent family and are known for their bushy tails, sharp claws, and acrobatic skills. They play an important role in the ecosystem as seed dispersers and as a source of food for many other animals, including birds of prey, snakes, and carnivorous mammals. On Squirrel Appreciation Day, people are encouraged to learn more about squirrels and to take steps to help protect their habitat. This can include putting up bird feeders, planting squirrel-friendly trees and shrubs, and avoiding the use of pesticides and other chemicals that can harm squirrels and other wildlife. Some people also celebrate Squirrel Appreciation Day by feeding squirrels in their backyard or by participating in squirrel-themed activities, such as making squirrel crafts or reading books about squirrels. The holiday is a fun way to appreciate these lively and entertaining animals and to learn more about their important role in the natural world.