How Gray Squirrels Use Their Feet?

How Gray Squirrels Use Their Feet?

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Experts of squirrel removal in Pickering understand the incredible feats squirrels are capable of, and many homeowners are often witness to these capabilities as well. Seeing a squirrel scurry up a tree trunk, leap from branch to branch, or rigorously dig are familiar sights, often overlooked because of the commonness of such actions.  People get used to seeing squirrels perform spectacular feats, and they often ignore the unique characteristics that allow the animal to thrive in its wooded environment: its claws. Squirrel claws are intense and sharp, and they serve multiple purposes.

1. Agility and Climbing

Climbing and death-defying jumps are the primary uses for squirrel claws. The strength and sharpness of the keratin in squirrel claws allow the animal to rapidly dig into the tree bark, creating a sturdy and stable grip. The incredible grip allows the animal to run 10 to 15 miles per hour up and through trees. The claws' sharpness and rigidity will also enable the animal to leap with confidence because these digit tools immediately latch onto the tree’s surface. Claws are the primary reason a squirrel is such a capable climber. If it weren't for these needle-like features, the gray squirrel would likely live a more vulnerable life on the ground. 

2. Hunting

Most people assume squirrels are herbivores, living off of nuts, seeds, fruits, and berries, but they are not. Squirrels are omnivores, just like people. While the animal's primary diet does consist of fruits, seeds, and nuts, it does require sustenance when these food options are scarce. It is relatively common for squirrels to feed on insects, frogs, even baby birds if food supplies are down. The claws help a squirrel become an effective hunter. The animal is able to grab its prey and hold it steady as it goes in for the kill shot. 

3. Defense

While a squirrel would much rather run from predators than fight, its claws do allow for a relatively strong defence. If captured, a squirrel, like any animal, will fight, scratch, and claw its way out of a desperate situation. Typically, a squirrel tries to avoid conflict. However, there are situations when the animal is more vulnerable than usual, such as pregnancy. The gray squirrel can carry babies for about 44 days and will become increasingly defensive during this time. Once her babies are born, she will need to remain protective. Babies are defenseless. Born blind and deaf, young squirrels are incredibly vulnerable to attack. The mother will use her claws and teeth to give her young a fighting chance.

4. Grabbing

Aside from climbing, squirrels primarily use their claws as grabbing tools. They use these sharp tools to hold nuts and seeds tight while they break through shells with their teeth. Squirrels have multiple digits on each forefoot and backfoot. The back feet have five digits, and the front feet have four. The extra digit and design of the hind legs allow for more control when the squirrel leaps from branch to branch. If you believe you have a squirrel or squirrel family living in your attic, garage, or shed, you should call a wildlife control professional. Attempting DIY removal along the roofline is dangerous and can result in injury. You can become injured from a fall or a squirrel attack.  Squirrels will defend themselves. While they might not look capable of much, their claws and agility can make them impeccable adversaries. Do not risk your safety or the safety of the animal. Contact Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control for help. The company will send an experienced wildlife technician to assess your property and determine services for the best path forward.

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Bill Dowd

About the author: Bill Dowd is the Founder, President, and CEO of Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control. He established Skedaddle in 1989, recognizing the need for professional urban wildlife focusing on humane removal methods. Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control have since had over 200,000 wildlife removals and exclusions with environment-friendly, poison-free methods since day one. Bill obtained his B.PhEd., from Brock University while playing varsity hockey. Bill also played hockey for the Ottawa 67’s and was drafted by the then Stanley Cup Champion New York Islanders. Bill has grown Skedaddle to the largest urban wildlife control company in Canada which currently services over 75 municipalities in Ontario, Quebec and Nova Scotia. Bill has also been a guest speaker for many municipalities and educational institutions on urban wildlife.

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