Welcome to In the Back Yard- where we have small thoughts about living alongside wildlife.
High above in the tree tops you might spy a pile of sticks, softened by dry leaves, bits of moss and a few clumps of dog hair.
It's a squirrel's nest - the correct term is a drey.
Unlike birds who only nest in breeding season, squirrels nest year round. Babies are usually born in the Spring and again late Summer.
Baby squirrels usually stay inside the nest for about 6 weeks before venturing out and are independent by 10 to 12 weeks.
The animal kingdom has to grow up very quickly and has to navigate multiple dangers every day.
We are mostly to blame as we plunder wildlife habitat, tear down treees and spray pesticide everywhere.
In the broader backyard food chain though, these little foragers are quite near the bottom - just above mice and insects.
I saw a fox pounce on one of our backyard squirrels - I was horrifiede and absolutlly devastated - as it tried to claw its way unsuccessfully to safety.
Such is the cycle of life in the backyard.
So sleep well little squirrel, in the high tree top!
Additional Thoughts:
Many people put squirrel boxes up in their backyards that provide a measure of protection for squirrels from the elements as well as predators.
Squirrels have become really adept at navigating bird feeders, but if you want to feed squirrels in the back yard there are some dedicated squirrel feeders that can supplement a squirrel through lean times.
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