Rats (also known as Muridae) are a large family of rodents which can be found in every part of the world except for Antarctica. They're considered pests by many people because they spread diseases, destroy property, and generally, make a pest and nuisance of themselves. There are many rat species that can be found all over the world - so many in fact, that people have started asking questions like, "Where did rats come from?" Rats are very much a part of history and had a significant influence on the course of world events and, as such, it's important to understand where they came from. So where did they come from, and how did they come to live in every part of the world? This article will try to shed some light on those questions, as well as describe some of the wildest and most interesting facts about rats. Where Did Rats Come From? Rats are believed to have originated from Southeast Asia. Around 200,000 years ago they started spreading to Northeast Asia and then to the Middle East about 3600 years ago. Later on, they spread to Africa, and once there, they conquered the world, the first major outbreaks occurred through transportation and trading routes. Rats can be found all over Africa, Europe, Asia, North America, and South America. They're even found on some of the smaller islands near these continents such as Fiji where they were introduced by humans. Evolutionary Origins of Rats In Asia and North America, the ancestors of rats first appear in fossil records about 54 million years ago, at the end of the Paleocene and the beginning of the Eocene period. They're believed to have evolved from anagalids, a small family of rodent-like mammals that also direct descendants of Lagomorpha or rabbits and hares. The Murids or Muridae family (Rattus, musculus, and relatives) first appeared in the fossil record about 34 million years ago in the late Eocene period. They have evolved to become their modern versions in the Miocene era about 25 million years ago. The Rattus genus, native to southeast Asia, Mediterranean countries, and the Middle East, first emerged from within Murids around 5 million years ago. After which it gave rise to many new and distinct species. Ancestors of brown rats (Norway rat) and black rats (Roof rat) diverged approximately 2 million years ago and both groups have since evolved to become their modern-day versions. To this day, the genus Rattus has 51 known species. Old World Rats The old world rats, black rat (ship rat), and the brown rat (Norway rat) (also known as Rattus rattus and Rattus norvegicus) are the most common type of rat you're likely to find. Trading and transportation routes very likely have played a big part in the spread of these rats and they are considered one of the most successful invasive species in history. Black Rats or Roof rats (Rattus rattus) Black rats (Rattus rattus) otherwise known as ship rats or roof rats are very adaptable and can survive in almost any environment. Infamous for their role as a major carrier of the bubonic plague, came from Asia and spread throughout the world, killing 200 million people in Europe alone. They're strong swimmers too which means they don't have to rely on humans for transport, although that certainly helps speed up the process of spreading them across continents. Black rats are the most common in cities and urban areas where they thrive in sewers, drains, and old buildings. These city rats are often found in homes and shops, feeding on food waste. They're also excellent climbers which means they can easily access the upper levels of buildings through windows, pipes, drainpipes, etc. Black rats have been living with humans for over 4000 years and their adaptability has allowed them to thrive in almost any environment. Brown Rats or Norway rat (Rattus Norvegicus) The brown rat (Rattus norvegicus) is slightly bigger than the black rat with a body length of around 15 inches. They're found in sewers, basements, cellars, and underground systems. They are also called sewer rats or Norway rats; yet, despite the name, these rats actually originated in China! Brown rats thrive in urban areas and sewers but can live just about anywhere. They often find their way into homes where they cause damage to buildings and property, as well as spread diseases through droppings and urine which is why humans try so hard to control brown rat numbers in urban areas. Origin of the Brown Rat Brown rats are believed to have originated from the plains of Asia, probably from what is now north China or Mongolia where the rodents lived in burrows, feeding mainly on plant material. As a result of trading and transportation routes, they were brought to Europe from Asia sometime around 1775 where their numbers increased dramatically. In North America, the brown rat was introduced in the early 1800s via ships that sailed into port cities along both coasts. Origin of Black Rats Black rats originated in the Indo-Malayan region and started spreading from there. These wild rats quickly found their way to the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and then finally North America where they were a cause of many problems for settlers trying to make a new life in this strange land. How Did Rats Spread Across the World? There are several different theories as to how rats managed to spread across the globe. How they spread so easily is still a topic of debate among researchers but it is widely believed that they made the journey by hitching a ride on boats. Trade is booming in the world so it's very easy for boats to pick up a rat or two without knowing. As the old world traders expanded their trade routes, rats were able to spread like wildfire. Most likely, it was a combination of all these things and more which led to the spread of black and brown rats across the world in such a short period of time. Some ships would have dozens of rats on them and once they reached their destination, the rat population exploded exponentially until every continent had a thriving rat community within its borders. Arrival in Europe Rats have reached Europe around 1300 and quickly spread across the continent. They have traveled with humans and quickly became a part of their ecosystem. Black rats arrived first and then later brown rats as well. It was first thought that the Rattus rattus arrived in Europe during the crusades but more recent evidence suggests that they arrived much earlier. Brown rats arrived a few centuries later. The two species thrived in the urban atmosphere of European cities - over-populated, and full of food scraps and garbage, an ideal environment for rats to make their home. The brown rat especially thrived in the sewers beneath these cities, feeding off the human food scraps and waste. They were able to breed in huge numbers and they have spread like wildfire. The silk road trade route also played a huge part in the spread of rats because trading ships from China brought rat-infested cargoes to Europe. The Black Death is believed to have spread due to the movement of these rats throughout the continent. The bubonic plague was carried by fleas that lived on black rats and once it entered a city, millions were infected before anyone realized what had happened. How Did Rats Come to America? It is believed that rats first arrived in the United States around 1776, The brown rats, specifically, first came in boxes of grain and other food supplies brought in by Hessian troops that are hired by the British during their war against America. Since then, they have been introduced to new areas by way of cargo boats, and ships, and then later on by cars, trucks, and trains. These animals are able to adapt to new climates easily so they were able to survive in the wild with relative ease across the world once humans made it part of their territory. Commensalism with Humans Rats have lived with humans for thousands of years. They've hitched rides on boats, live in human houses, and have even made their homes in the sewers of big cities. They are able to adapt to almost any environment. They have been a part of human society for so long that they've become a natural part of the ecosystem in most places and their numbers have swelled to an impossible number - outnumbering humans in some cities, especially densely populated ones like New York City where there is food waste everywhere you look. Other Means of Migrating Besides using ships, trains and trucks, there are some other ways that rats have been able to reach new destinations. They can travel on foot through sewers and drainage pipes, and they swim! Rats are great swimmers and many have crossed rivers to get into new territories. In fact, rats can swim half a mile and thread in water for 3 days straight without stopping! It is thought that swarms of rats have crossed the Volga river into Russia in this way. Conclusion As we've seen, rats have come a long way from their origins. They've traveled along with humans for thousands of years and if not for their penchant for spreading diseases and destroying stuff, they would have been one of the greatest traveling companions. Unfortunately, that's not how they've made their mark on history! They do have some uses though. For example, all laboratory rats are domesticated brown rats. A brown lab rat is a very common pet and is even used in scientific research. Rats are also used for their fur which is turned into clothing, and they've even eaten in some countries around the world! Rats have been in this country a long time, but AAAC Wildlife Removal is here to help with all of your rat trapper needs! Rat FAQs Do rats burrow underground? Rats do burrow, but not all rats live in burrows. Some rat den is in trees, in abandoned buildings, or even in people's attics! Can rats swim underwater? Do rats like to swim? The answer's yes! They are great swimmers and can tread water for up to three days! Do all rats carry diseases? Rats do carry diseases, the common rat diseases include salmonella, leptospirosis, and rat-bite fever. These diseases can be passed on to humans, so it's important to be careful when handling them! Originally published on https://aaacwildliferemoval.com/blog/rats/where-did-rats-originate

• Brian Moss (President)
• AAAC Wildlife Removal

11/28/2022

Total words : 1744

Have you ever encountered a rat? If so, then you know that they are all over the place. You may even have one or two living in your attic right now. Rats are nasty and disease-ridden creatures that carry many different types of viruses, bacteria, and parasites that can cause sickness in humans. In fact, they are responsible for the demise of more human lives than any other animal in history. As if that wasn't bad enough, the rat infestation problem is only getting worse. That's right; there are more rats now living on Earth than at any other time in human history! In this article, we will be exploring rat-borne illnesses, how these diseases affect people's health, and finally provide some tips on how to prevent rat infestations and diseases in your home! Rat-Borne Diseases Rats have been known to carry diseases for centuries. In the past, rat infestations have been blamed for spreading plagues that killed millions of people across Europe and Asia. In fact, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), rats and mice are known to spread over 35 different diseases and infections to humans. Rats can carry many different types of bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi on their bodies and in their bloodstream. These can be passed on to humans either directly or indirectly. For instance, rats can pass diseases onto humans through bites or scratches that break the skin, but they can also spread germs on their fur and then transfer these pathogens to people when we come into contact with them without washing our hands first. Diseases That Are Directly Transmitted By Rats There are many different types of diseases that rats can directly transmit to humans. Some of the more common ones are: Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome is a severe respiratory disease that can be caused by direct contact with rat droppings, urine, or saliva. Some of the symptoms include fever and chills, headache, body aches, and dizziness. Left untreated HPS can lead to difficulty in breathing which requires hospitalization in an intensive care unit. Rat Bite Fever (Streptobacillus moniliformis) This illness is contracted by either ingesting contaminated food or water, coming in direct contact with the saliva of an infected rat, or through a cut that comes into contact with rodent urine or feces. Rat-bite fever typically starts out like many other illnesses with fever, chills, headaches, and muscle aches. Many people recover from rat-bite fever after a few weeks of these initial symptoms without any further complications. However, in some cases, the disease can turn into something much more serious such as kidney or heart failure which could eventually lead to death if not treated. Hepatitis E This disease is caused by the hepatitis E virus that can be found in rat droppings, urine, and saliva. People contract this disease when they come in contact with these animals' bodily fluids through either a break in the skin or through the eyes, nose, or mouth. Symptoms include fever and jaundice, very common symptoms, which is why this disease can be easily confused with other more common illnesses such as hepatitis A or the flu. Hepatitis E is not typically deadly in healthy adults, but it can cause liver damage and even death to people with weak immune systems such as those who are elderly or suffer from other chronic health conditions. Leptospirosis Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that can be transmitted to humans by way of rat urine. When a human catches leptospirosis from a rat, the symptoms can be similar to those of other illnesses such as a fever and headache. In rare cases, severe complications from leptospirosis include liver or kidney failure which could lead to death if not treated in time. Tularemia (Rabbit Fever) This infectious disease usually affects small mammals, but it can also spread to humans through contact with rat urine, saliva, or feces. It is a serious disease that can lead to death if not treated in time so it's important to see your doctor immediately if you think you might have been exposed. Salmonellosis (salmonella) This bacterial illness causes diarrhea that lasts for several days. It can also cause vomiting and fever which is why it should be taken very seriously because left untreated salmonella poisoning could eventually lead to death if not treated properly in a hospital setting. Illnesses That Are Indirectly Transmitted By Rats In addition to the illnesses that rats directly spread, there are many other types of illnesses that they can transmit without ever coming in direct contact with us. Rat parasites such as ticks, lice, and mites are the usual vector for these illnesses. Some examples of diseases that rats can indirectly transmit to humans include: Typhus This disease is a bacterial infection caused by a pathogen called Rickettsia Prowazekii and it can be spread through rat mites. When people come in contact with infected clothing, bedding, or furniture that has been exposed to the droppings of an infected rodent then they could also contract this illness. Symptoms include fever, headache, chills, and rash which is about as bad as it gets for typhus. Plague This is another serious disease that people can contract through rat parasites such as ticks and fleas. The parasites drink from the blood of infected rodents and they carry the bacterium Yersinia pestis in their gut. When a human comes into contact with an infected tick or other rat parasites, or with materials that have been exposed to them such as clothing, bedding, or furniture then they could also contract plague which can be fatal if not treated in time. Colorado tick fever This disease is caused by a virus that can be transmitted to humans through the bite of a tick that has fed on the blood of infected animals. Wild rodents are the usual carriers of this disease. The only way to protect yourself against this disease is by avoiding contact with wild animals such as rats, mice, and chipmunks which are all common carriers of Colorado tick fever. Cutaneous leishmaniasis This is a parasitic disease that usually affects rodents, but it can spread to humans through the bite of sandflies which are themselves infected by an infected rodent's blood. The symptoms include red ulcers on the skin and while not life-threatening they should be taken very seriously because if left untreated, leishmaniasis lesions will worsen and could turn into open wounds that may never heal properly. Lyme disease This disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi which can be transmitted to humans through infected ticks. If left untreated, Lyme disease can cause chronic arthritis and heart problems in addition to other serious complications so it should not be taken lightly under any circumstances. Murine typhus This disease is caused by a bacteria called Rickettsia typhi which can be transmitted to humans through infected fleas. Early symptoms include fever, headache, body aches, and chills so if you experience any of these it's important to go see your doctor right away. Severe cases of murine typhus are rare but could potentially lead to organ damage. How to Keep Yourself Safe Rats have been spreading infection ever since the dawn of civilization and as their populations expand they become more likely to come into contact with humans. This is why we must learn how to protect ourselves from rats before an outbreak occurs. The last thing you want is a serious illness that could leave you in the hospital for weeks or even months. There are several steps that you can take to avoid rat-borne illnesses including: Home and yard upkeep This is by far the most important step. If your home is in disarray with trash and other debris scattered around then you are practically begging for an infestation of rats or other rodents such as mice, chipmunks, or squirrels to move into your space without resistance. Be sure that all food sources have been removed from inside and outside of your home because the scent will attract rodents and insects to invade. Control the rodent population Make sure that your home is rat-proof by sealing entry points like cracks and crevices. By doing this you can reduce the chances of coming into contact with rats and other rodents. Wash your hands Washing your hands and changing your clothes before and after you come in contact with animals is a good way to prevent yourself from contracting any serious illnesses. Stay away from floodwater Flood water can have infected urine and feces mixed in with it which can enter your body through breaks in the skin like wounds or cuts. Avoid areas with high rat populations If you don't want to come into contact with rats then stay away from places where there are high concentrations of rodents such as dumpsters behind restaurants and grocery stores. Call rat control if you have a rodent infestation You don't know where did rats come from on your property? And you don't know how to get rid of them? In this case, it would be best to call a professional rat exterminator company like AAAC Wildlife Removal for help. If you don't take care of your rodent problem then you could end up with bigger problems such as a full-blown infestation that will be very difficult to control. Conclusion Rats have been responsible for spreading sickness throughout time and there is always a risk that they will spread them to humans. These infections range from mild to fatal and can be contracted either directly or indirectly. By taking the right preventative measures, you can reduce your chances of coming into contact with a rat and contracting a serious illness. This means being proactive in protecting yourself from these illnesses by maintaining your home, washing hands frequently, staying away from areas with high concentrations of rodents, and calling professionals if you have a rat infestation problem on your property. Rat FAQs Do rats like to swim? Yes! rats like to swim! They are often seen swimming in canals and streams. Rats are excellent swimmers and can tread water for up to three days! Do rats dig holes? Rats dig holes in the ground for a variety of reasons. They may be looking for food, water, or shelter. Holes also provide rats with a way to escape from predators. Originally published on https://aaacwildliferemoval.com/blog/rats/rat-diseases

• Brian Moss (President)
• AAAC Wildlife Removal

11/28/2022

Total words : 1736

Squirrels are known to make lots of noises. They make lots of different chirps, grunts, and other noises. Common species like the Eastern gray squirrel are considered to be very chatty animals. However, do they ever bark? This article will explore the squirrel noises that these furry creatures make, and whether or not they bark. Noises Squirrels Make If you've ever watched grey squirrels in your backyard play, then you know that they're chatty and full of energy. They will chatter at each other, chirp at other animals, and they will even make warning noises. These are just some of the sounds that squirrels can be heard making when living out in their natural habitat. Squeaking One of the most common noises that squirrels make is a high-pitched squeaking noise. This sound has many different meanings, so it's hard to generalize what they might be doing when making this type of noise. It could mean excitement or fear, depending on their behavior and other factors around them at the time. Chattering Another noise that squirrels make is a rapid chattering sound. This can be heard when two squirrels are playing, bickering with each other, or even at the same time as their squeaking noises. Chattering sounds will vary in pitch and speed depending on the situation. Grunts/Grunting Squirrels also make grunting sounds as a way to communicate with each other. These noises can be heard when they are excited or angry about something, and also during mating season. Moaning When squirrels are worried or anxious, they will let out a low moaning sound. This can be heard when they know that there is danger nearby, like if a predator is nearby or they are being hunted. The sound is usually accompanied by tail flicking and other signs of distress. Buzzing Squirrels make a buzzing noise when they are in a state of alarm. This sound is sometimes accompanied by tail flicking and other signs that something nearby might be dangerous or threatening to them, like if you're trying to pick up one off the ground. Barking The main sound that squirrels are known for producing is a "bark" which actually sounds more like the noise of a squeaky toy. The sound can resemble a dog barking but is much more high-pitched. This can be heard when they feel threatened by another animal coming near their territory, or if someone comes too close to them while they are eating. It usually means they are warning other animals to stay away from the area. It has been speculated that they do this to sound like a larger animal. Barking Squirrels? So, do squirrels bark? The answer is yes. They make barking noises to warn other animals or people away from them when they are in danger, and they also make barking sounds when there is a predator nearby. A squirrel barking at you isn't necessarily a cause for alarm. They are simply trying to protect themselves and let you know that they aren't helpless or weak, as many predators think of them as prey. Squirrel Alarm Calls These sounds squirrels make are all alarm signals or calls. An alarm call is a way for them to communicate with other squirrels and tell the world around them that there is danger nearby. There are different types of alarm calls squirrels to make depending on the situation. Here are the common calls you may hear, and what they mean: Aggression Calls/Signals These are sounds squirrels make warning nearby squirrels that they are trespassing and that the squirrels are not happy about it. These sounds can sometimes be accompanied by tail flicking if they make a warning call as well, which can mean an escalation from those initial signals to more serious ones. The sound of screeches, rattles and barks are the most common types of aggressive calls. Hunger Calls These are calls usually done by baby squirrels when they are calling for their mother to come to feed them. These "muk-muk" sounds are low puffing noises that are done when the baby is still in the nest. Noisy Threat Calls When squirrels are in danger or feel threatened, they will make a sound that is much louder than their other noises to scare off whatever it is that might be threatening them. Barking is usually associated with this sound and is often accompanied by tail flicking as well. Scientists have categorized barking into two different types: "kuk" and "quaa" barks where "Kuk" is a short bark and "quaa" is a longer bark. Mating Calls These are calls or signals a male squirrel is using to attract female squirrels. This sound resembles that of a baby squirrel, this signals that they are not a threat to the female squirrel. It is usually done in a series of "muk-muk" noises. Adult squirrels make this noise during mating season when they are looking for another squirrel to mate with. What should I do if a squirrel barks at me? If you encounter a barking squirrel, there's no need to worry. It is simply trying to let you know that even though they are small, they are still going to protect themselves. You should respect their warning and back away slowly while watching the squirrel make sure it doesn't become aggressive or attack you. If a barking squirrel is in your yard, there's no need to be scared of them either. The only reason a squirrel would bark when inside your backyard is that it's protecting its territory. Squirrel Removal Near Me If you are tired of squirrels in your yard, it is easy to find a professional who can help you get rid of the pesky animals by trapping them. AAAC Wildlife Removal is a trusted name in the wildlife removal business and has helped thousands of homeowners resolve their pest wildlife problems. Call us now to get rid of those pesky animals! Wildlife Exclusion After removing squirrels from your yard, the next step is to make sure they don't come back. You can do this by getting squirrel exclusion and prevention methods installed on your property that will keep them out for good. There are sealing caps that you can put over any holes in the foundation of your home or sheds, as well as other things like wire mesh that you can put over vents leading into your attic. Attic Restoration If you find that squirrels have already made their way into your attic, it is important to get them out as soon as possible or they could damage the insulation in your home. This will require an expert who knows how to safely remove the animals and restore the area so there are no remnants of what once was inside. At AAAC Wildlife Removal, we provide attic restoration services that will make sure the area is safe and clean. Wildlife Damage Repair Damage repair is also something we provide to make sure the affected areas of your home are fixed. This can include things like fixing holes in the roof or siding, restoring insulation to your attic, and replacing any drywall that has been damaged. If you need help with wildlife damage repair, give us a call today! Dead Animal Removal Sometimes a squirrel or other small wildlife will crawl inside your home or building and die. This can cause a horrible odor that can be tough to get rid of. Removing the carcass can be tricky because the animal may have become stuck in an area that makes it difficult to remove, like a cavity between two walls. At AAAC Wildlife Removal, we can help you get rid of dead animals that have been stuck inside your home. We will locate the animal, remove it as well as clean up any mess that was left behind from the carcass and ensure there is no odor or damage to your building. Frequently Asked Questions Why do squirrels make sp much noise? Squirrels make noise to communicate with other squirrels and animals. The most common noise squirrels will make is a barking sound, which they use to warn each other of danger or threats in their territory. Male squirrels also have mating calls that they use to attract female ones so the sound may be different than what you would hear from one warning another about something dangerous nearby. What should I do if a squirrel is in my yard? If you see squirrels eating in your backyard, the best thing to do would be to leave them alone and let them go on their way. Unless they are already causing damage to your property or are in your attic, then that is a whole different story! If you see squirrel nests in trees near your house, you can trim back branches to make it harder for them to access your roof. You should also seal up any holes in your home that they could use to get inside. What should I do if there's a squirrel in my attic? If you have found squirrels living in your attic, you must get them out right away. The longer they are allowed to stay inside the more likely they will cause damage and make repairs even more expensive for you. Give us a call and we can help with getting rid of squirrels. What is the most common noise that I will hear from a squirrel? The most common noises include barking, chirping, screaming, squeaking, or even purring. Sometimes it will be a combination of sounds to signal different things like warning signs and mating calls. How long do squirrels hibernate? Do squirrels sleep during winter? This is a common question from people, however, squirrels do not hibernate. They go into a state called torpor where they sleep more during the winter months. They will also spend more time in their nests and less time foraging for food since there are not as many resources available to them. Originally published on https://aaacwildliferemoval.com/blog/squirrels/do-squirrels-bark

• Brian Moss (President)
• AAAC Wildlife Removal

11/28/2022

Total words : 1674

Squirrels are a common sight in most yards and parks. They're cute, they're fun to watch, and sometimes they'll come right up to you for a handout. But have you ever stopped to think about how squirrels live? Do they build nests? Where do squirrel babies sleep when it's cold out? In this post, we will explore the fascinating world of squirrel nesting behavior! So, Do They Have Nests? Yes! Squirrels do have nests and they are called dreys. These are circular, fluffy, and loosely woven nests made of twigs, leaves, moss, bark, and plant stems. They are usually built in the forks of large branches or at the end of tree limbs and tree cavities but they can also be found on rocky ledges, inside hollow trees, and even under bridges! What Do Squirrel Nests Look Like? From afar they look like a ball of leaves, but up close you can see that they are a compressed pile of materials, with a hollow center. A drey has good insulation for the winter and is typically dry on the inside (especially if it rains), so squirrels can hide their nuts in there to keep them from getting wet! These are usually built in the fork at the end of a branch high up off the ground. But squirrels will build their dreys almost anywhere they can find an elevated spot to build on. Dreys are not waterproof, so squirrels need to be clever about where they build them! They do their best to choose a place that will stay dry during rain or snowfall. Why Do Squirrels Build Nests? Well, there are a few reasons why squirrels build nests. One reason is to keep their offspring safe. A mother squirrel typically has two or three babies at a time, and they need a place to raise them where predators can't get to them. Nests provide safety and insulation from the cold weather. Another reason squirrels build nests is to store food in. A drey is a perfect place to stash away acorns, walnuts, and other nuts so that they can be retrieved later. This is especially important during the winter when food is scarce! Squirrels also build nests to conserve heat during colder times of the year. They like to spend all winter eating out of their nut stash and sleeping close to their family members to preserve body heat. Types of Squirrel Nests Squirrels build two different types of nests: leaf nests and Tree cavity nests. Leaf Nests Leaf nests are what you find in most backyards. These are usually on top of trees they look like a big pile of leaves, but they have a hollow center for sheltering the squirrels and their babies! These nests are typically tucked in a fork in the branch of a tree to make it stable and safe. These nests look almost like a typical bird nest, but they are much larger and fluffier! Tree Cavity Nests Tree cavity dens are typically created in the natural hollows of trees, but squirrels will also use abandoned bird nests, buildings, and other man-made objects. Squirrels just love these as they are typically warmer and drier than leaf nests! How Is A Squirrel Leaf Nest Constructed? Building a drey is not as easy as it looks! First, they start by gathering a lot of twigs. They break these branches into small pieces and then start weaving them together to create a sturdy, circular nest. If they need to fill it out more they will gather leaves and mosses for added insulation. They then make the nest more stable by packing in moss and damp leaves on the twig frame reinforcing it with pieces of bark. They will then weave a spherical frame to reinforce the shape of the nest and then line it with a soft material like grass, moss, fur from animals they have eaten, or even shredded pieces of plastic bags! When the drey is finally finished, they will test it out by jumping in and out of it to make sure that their babies are safe! When building tree cavity nests many squirrels collect more mosses than usual because these nests tend to dry up quickly. These nests typically have a diameter of around 7 inches but some species like the gray squirrels can build much larger nests up to 2 feet wide in diameter. What Do Squirrels Use Their Nest For? Like many other animals, squirrels create nests to provide a safe place for their young to live in, but sometimes they also use them as a storage space. A squirrel nest serves many purposes to the squirrel species, including : Nesting: This is where female squirrels will have their young and keep them safe from predators. Sleeping: A lot of times you will see a squirrel sleeping in its nest during the day. Hiding food: Squirrels will hide nuts, acorns, and other food items in their nests to keep them from being eaten or getting wet. Resting: After a long day of foraging and playing, squirrels will retire to their nests to rest. When Do Squirrels Build Nests? Squirrels build nests year-round, but they are most active in the spring and summer when they're raising their young. They will start looking for a good spot to build them when it's starting to get warm out. They will look for a large sturdy branch that they can easily access, but not so close to the ground where it might be too easy for predators to find them. Once they have found their spot, it's time to start building! Squirrels, in winter, will also use their nests to sleep in and keep warm. They will line their nests with extra leaves, moss, and fur with their stored food to help keep them insulated from the cold weather. How Do Squirrels Choose Where to Build Their Nests? There are a few things that squirrels look for when choosing where to build their nests: Safety: They want to choose a spot that is safe from predators like hawks, owls, and cats. Protection from the elements: They want to make sure that their nest is in a spot that is sheltered from the wind and rain. Good visibility: They want to be able to see what is going on around them so they can watch for predators. Accessibility: They want a spot that is easy for them to get to, so they can keep an eye on their food stores! Why Are Squirrels Creating Their Nest In My Property? Squirrels usually build their nests where there is easy access to food and water sources. If they are on your property, it is likely because they are finding a lot of food there. Tree cavity nests and leaf nests are becoming less common for squirrels because many places don't have the right environment to create them. As a result, squirrels can become very territorial in their nesting spots and will make homes anywhere they find the perfect spot! This is why you may see one trying to build its nest in your property; they are just trying to find a place to call home! What to Do With Squirrels on Your Property? If you see a squirrel trying to make its home on your property, there are some things that you can do: Start by removing the food sources for them. This means keeping all of your fruits picked up and away from ground level! You should also trim back bushes so they don't provide many shelters for these little guys. If you have bird feeders in your yard, take it down and stop feeding the squirrels so they don't associate your property with food. If you still see them trying to build their nests in your trees or on the side of your house, then you can try blocking them off using mesh wire or galvanized steel wool, just be sure that there aren't any young squirrels inside the nest when you do this! If all of these measures fail, you can always call a professional to remove the squirrel from your property. Who Do I Call to Remove Squirrels from My Property? You should never attempt to remove a squirrel from your property on your own! They may seem like cute, furry creatures but they are wild animals that can be dangerous if you don't know what you're doing. Squirrels can bark, bite and scratch and they can also carry diseases. If you see squirrels eating and damaging your fruits or vegetables, and need help removing them from your property, please call a professional wildlife removal company. They will be able to humanely remove the squirrel and make sure they don't come back! Squirrel Removal Near Me AAAC Wildlife Removal is a full-service wildlife removal company that can handle any squirrel pest control problem. We are licensed and fully insured to get the job done right! We have a team of experienced professionals that know squirrels very well and will be able to get them out of your property quickly and safely. If you are having a problem with squirrels on your property, please call us today! We would be happy to help! Conclusion Squirrels do have nests and they will go to great lengths to make sure their dreys are in a good spot so that their babies are kept safe and warm. It's fascinating to watch these little creatures go about their lives, so be sure to keep an eye out for squirrel nests the next time you're outside! Originally published on https://aaacwildliferemoval.com/blog/squirrels/do-squirrels-have-nests

• Brian Moss (President)
• AAAC Wildlife Removal

11/28/2022

Total words : 1604

Winter makes the resources of animals scarce. To make it through the winter, animals need to minimize their energy use. One way they do this is by slowing down their metabolism and entering hibernation. Hibernation allows most wild animals that live in very cold places to conserve energy and avoid starving during winter months when food is scarce. The thing is, squirrels, tree squirrels, in particular, do not hibernate. They go into a deep sleep called torpor. Torpor is very similar to hibernation but it's not as deep or as long. Squirrels usually enter torpor when the temperature outside becomes too cold for them to be active (usually below 50 degrees Fahrenheit). They may seem like they're hibernating because they enter a resting state where their heart rate and body temperature drop, but they can easily be awakened. The state of torpor along with other winter survival strategies is how squirrels make it through the cold months. Do Squirrels Hibernate? Common tree squirrels like the grey squirrel do not hibernate. However, they do have a few tricks up their sleeves. Although their bodies do not shut down just like other animals during the winter, they go into a state called torpor. This means that the squirrel's metabolism slows down, and it doesn't need to eat or drink as much. This way they can save on energy and make it through the winter. They usually go to torpor from October to April but it varies depending on where they live. Squirrels spend less time foraging for food and more time resting in this state. If the temperature is too cold for them to be active, they will go into torpor. For example, if it's below 50 degrees Fahrenheit outside, you'll probably find a squirrel snoozing away. Some places depending on their resources may not have a long hibernation period. Squirrels in the north and west of North America and Europe typically hibernate longer than ones from southern areas. How Long Do Squirrels Hibernate? Well, if we're talking about true hibernation, where the animal's body shuts down, tree squirrels don't do that. However, they go into a state called torpor where their metabolism slows down and they don't need to eat or drink as much. So depending on what you call hibernation, squirrels can "hibernate" from October to April. The answer to how long they are in the state of torpor is, it depends on where they live and the resources available. Some places may only have a short hibernation period, while others can go longer than six months depending on their environment. Torpor: What is it? Unlike other animals in the winter, squirrels do not completely shut down. Their metabolism slows down, but they can still wake up and forage for food if they need to. If the weather is mild, they may even skip hibernation altogether! Squirrels in warmer climates typically don't hibernate. They go into torpor for a few days and then wake up again to eat food that they store. They can last anywhere from a couple of hours to days. It all depends on the weather and how much food there is available. Why Don't Tree Squirrels Hibernate? Squirrel species do not hibernate because it is not necessary for their survival, unlike other animals that live in severe cold conditions or harsher climates where resources are scarce. Their pre-winter activities allow them to store up enough food and energy to last through the winter. They hoard food in their dens and fatten up at the same time to get ready for the winter. They also have a thick coat of fur that helps to keep them warm. The combination of hoarding and denning with other animals allows them to survive the winter. What Does Squirrel Hibernation Look Like? During torpor, a squirrel's heart rate slows down and so does its breathing. They can go for weeks without needing to eat or drink! Their metabolism is so slow that they can go for a very long time without needing to wake up and eat. They will bury themselves in leaves or their nests, which is called a drey nest. Hibernation vs. Torpor Hibernation is a state of inactivity that occurs during winter. During this time, an animal's body temperature and heart rate decrease to conserve energy. Torpor does not mean the same thing as hibernation. In torpor, animals' metabolisms slow down but they can wake up if needed. Hibernation has the advantage of being able to save energy for the entire winter. However, it also means that the animal is not able to move around and find food. If there is a prolonged winter, the animal could die. Torpor has less energy savings because the animal is able to wake up and find food if needed. This has the advantage of the animal being alert to danger and able to find food. However, the disadvantage of torpor is that it does not last as long so their energy savings are less than hibernation. What About Ground Squirrels? Unlike tree squirrels, ground squirrels hibernate in the winter. They go into a deep sleep for about six months and their heart rate and breathing slow way down. When they wake up, they have to eat everything that they've missed while they were sleeping! They hibernate around September and wake up in March. Ground squirrels live in burrows underground where it is warm and moist. This helps them to conserve their energy throughout the winter. Squirrels' Preparation For Winter It's really interesting to learn about how animals survive by finding food when it is scarce, during winter times! Common squirrels like the eastern gray squirrel usually start their preparations in the summer so they are ready for the cold winter months. They start by stocking up on food, usually in late summer and early fall. They gather mostly nuts, but also acorns, seeds, and berries. Squirrels also bury their food in the ground so they can have a source of food when winter comes. They also start to fatten up before hibernation, getting as much fat as possible on their bodies. This will help them through the winter when they're not able to move around and find food. Where Do Squirrels Live in the Winter? Tree squirrels live in nests called dreys, which are usually small holes in tree trunks or branches. They will line the nests with leaves and grass to help keep them warm during wintertime. Some squirrels will also live with people during the winter. They are often seen living in attics, garages, and even roofs! They will usually find a place that is warm and has access to food like bird feeders, trash cans, and pet food so they can survive the winter. How Long Do Squirrels Stay In Their Dens During Winter? Squirrels stay in their dens for different amounts of time during the winter. In the regions where they do not have extremely cold weather, they can stay in their dens for a couple of days. In colder areas, squirrels may be in hibernation from three months up to five months! This really depends on how long and severe the winter is each year. Squirrels eat nuts and seeds during summer and fall. They store these food items in their dens so that they can have something to eat during winter when there are fewer options available for them to find food. Squirrels also try to stock up on as much fat as possible before hibernation because this will help them through the cold months when they don't have anything else to eat except what they've stored. Other Squirrel Survival Strategies After hoarding their food, squirrels go looking for a place to spend the winter. They usually find an abandoned animal den or another hole, like under your house! Squirrel nestings are made out of leaves and grass in these spots so they are ready when winter comes. Squirrels also live with other squirrels in their area, which can help them survive because they can share warmth. This allows them to spend less energy keeping warm and more on looking for food. Their thick and warm coat of fur also helps to keep them warm. They will sleep during the winter in their nests for weeks at a time, only waking up every couple of days or so. It's pretty incredible that squirrels can sleep through the winter, but they have very good strategies to survive! They start getting ready in late summer so they are prepared when the weather gets cold. These small animals store a lot of food and pack their nests with leaves or grass so that they are ready when winter comes. They also live in groups with other squirrels to help them survive the winter months. When Do Squirrels Come Out Of Hibernation? Squirrels come out of hibernation at different times depending on the type of squirrel and where they live. Ground squirrels and flying squirrels usually come out earlier than red or tree squirrels. Gray squirrels usually come out in late February or early March, while the other types of squirrels come out in April or May. Grey squirrels may also come out of torpor early to breed during their winter breeding season which happens in January and February. It's pretty interesting to think about squirrels sleeping through the winter, but they have some very clever strategies! They start getting ready in late summer so that when it gets cold out they are prepared for hibernation. The earliest time a ground squirrel can come out is in February, while the latest time for a flying squirrel is in April. Squirrels usually come out of hibernation when they sense that the temperature outside has gotten warmer and there's more food for them to eat! Conclusion It's interesting to think about how animals have adapted over time to survive in different environments. Squirrels are a great example of this! They may not hibernate for as long as other animals, but they have still found a way to make it through the winter without food. So, that's a little bit about how squirrels hibernate! Amazingly, they can survive the winter by going into torpor for short periods. And it's interesting to see how their habits change depending on where they live. If you're having trouble with squirrels once the Winter concludes, AAAC Wildlife Removal's wildlife technicians are some of the best squirrel trappers in the United States. Squirrel FAQs Do squirrels bark? Do squirrels bark is a question that many people have when they hear the high-pitched, short sound that squirrels sometimes make. They make a noise that sounds a lot like barking, but it's actually more of a chattering sound. How long is the lifespan of a squirrel? The lifespan of a squirrel can vary depending on the species, but most of them live between five and ten years in the wild. What are some common diseases that affect squirrels? There are a few diseases that commonly affect squirrels. One of them is leptospirosis, which is a bacterial infection that can be deadly. Squirrels can also get rabies, although this is rare. Originally published on https://aaacwildliferemoval.com/blog/squirrels/how-long-do-squirrels-hibernate

• Brian Moss (President)
• AAAC Wildlife Removal

11/28/2022

Total words : 1869