Can Squirrels See Colors?

Have you ever been sitting enjoying the fall leaves, noticed a squirrel and wondered if it too can see the beautiful colors? Perhaps not, but it is an interesting question, nonetheless. Squirrels are a common sight around Milwaukee, and they seem to quickly notice any possible threat that comes near them. What exactly can they see? Are they color blind?

What Squirrels See

Research suggests that squirrels have dichromatic vision. This means that they have two types of cones in their eyes that allow them to see color. Humans have three types, which allow us to see more colors. Specifically, it appears that squirrels can distinguish red and green from other colors but not from each other. Think of this as being similar to red-green colorblindness in humans. The researchers determined this through behavioral tests involving colored light panels. The squirrels were rewarded with food for selecting the right colored panel. They were able to select the right panel unless they needed to differentiate between green and red. Researchers also examined the cones in squirrels’ eyes to determine what their vision may be like on a cellular level. Squirrels overall appear to have excellent vision. The reduced complexity of colors may allow them to see better with their green and blue cones. Their vision also seems to have a yellow tint that may help them see more easily in bright sunlight.

How This Impacts Squirrel Behavior

In addition to having keen eyesight, squirrels also can see in front of them, behind them and to their peripheries without moving their heads. In other words, squirrels are very hard to sneak up on. If you get near them, they will retreat before coming back to their nests later. So, if you have a squirrel problem at your home, this makes it extra difficult to manage. Squirrels appear to be attracted to bright-colored vegetables. You may find them stealing your carrots, peas, squash and other similar veggies. Like all animals, they are attracted to places with plenty of resources, particularly food. Anything that appears to be food to them will draw in squirrels, even if it doesn’t look like food to us.

Why This Matters to You

Although many people think they are cute and fun to watch, squirrels can cause trouble for homeowners. If they decide they want to live in your house, you can have a hard time getting rid of them. They can also scare away or even attack other animals including birds. Squirrels are also very resourceful, and they are omnivores. In other words, they will happily take all manner of foods and other resources from you. This can make getting rid of an infestation frustrating because you have to be so careful not to supply them with food.

How To Manage Your Squirrel Problem

If you have a squirrel problem at your home, it is best to call the experts. For squirrel removal Milwaukee residents can come to Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control. We can help you get these furry animals out of your home permanently. The key to our approach is defending your home against squirrels coming in. Anyone can get them to leave (for a little while); we are experts in making sure they don’t come back. We start by assessing your home and removing any squirrels that are living there. We also clean your home of anything that could be attracting the critters. Finally, we repair any wildlife damage such as gnawed holes in a roof that may be allowing squirrels inside.

Humane Wildlife Removal

Whether they need mouse, raccoon, bird or squirrel removal, Milwaukee residents know they can trust us. Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control has over two decades of experience handling wildlife problems. If you aren’t in Milwaukee, check our other locations to see if one is near you.