Squirrel Fun for Kids

Squirrels are small, furry animals with big bushy tails and bright curious eyes. They love to hop from tree to tree, gather nuts, and play all day. These smart little creatures help plant new trees and can be fun to watch!

Watch A Squirrel In Action!

Check out this fun video to see a squirrel gathering nuts and leaping between branches.

What Is A Squirrel?

Squirrels are rodents with soft fur and long, fluffy tails. They live in trees or on the ground and are great climbers.

• They have sharp front teeth that never stop growing.
• They use their bushy tails for balance and to signal other squirrels.
• There are kinds that live in trees, on the ground, and even glide like flying squirrels.

Where Do Squirrels Live?

Squirrels can be found in many places around the world where there are trees or fields.

• They live in forests, parks, gardens, and woodland areas.
• Some make nests called dreys high up in tree branches.
• Others dig burrows underground to stay warm and safe.

What Do Squirrels Eat?

Squirrels are omnivores who love eating seeds and nuts—but they enjoy other tasty treats too!

• They nibble on acorns, walnuts, hazelnuts, and sunflower seeds.
• They sometimes eat fruits, berries, mushrooms, and even insects.
• They store nuts in the ground and may eat their own body weight in food each week.

How Big Is A Squirrel?

Squirrels are about the size of a school ruler from nose to tail and weigh about as much as a small plush toy.

• Length: around 25–30 cm (10–12 in), about the length of a ruler.
• Weight: about 500 g (1 lb), similar to a big apple or small plush bear.

What Sound Do Squirrels Make?

Squirrels make soft chirps, barks, and sharp chattering noises, especially when they’re alert or excited.

Cool Squirrel Facts

Squirrels are full of surprises! Here are some amazing things about them:

• They can run up to 32 km/h (20 mph) to escape danger.
• They remember thousands of hiding spots for their nuts.
• Their front teeth never stop growing.
• They fall from high places without getting hurt—their tails act like parachutes.
• There are over 265 species around the world.
• Some squirrels pretend to bury nuts to trick others!
• Californian ground squirrels wave heated tails to scare snakes.
• Baby squirrels are born blind and grow up in 6–10 weeks.
• They help plant trees when they forget buried nuts—like little forest gardeners!

Printables And Coloring Fun

Have fun coloring and learning more with these fun activities:

• Download Squirrel Coloring Page (PDF)

Squirrels In The Eco‑System

Squirrels are helpful helpers in nature! They also face some threats.

• They help new trees grow by spreading nuts.
• They are food for foxes, hawks, owls, and other wild animals.
• Wild squirrels are not endangered overall, but some species like the red squirrel are at risk.

Ask A Grown‑Up To Help You Learn More

If you want to learn even more, ask an adult to explore these trusted books and websites:

• Live Science – Squirrel diet, halls & facts
• Environmental Literacy Council – 5 Fascinating Facts
• National Park Service – Ground squirrel sounds

Fun Questions About Squirrels

Ways To Donate And Support Squirrels

You can help protect squirrels by supporting wildlife and forest groups. Plant local trees, avoid using harmful chemicals in gardens, and support nature centers.

Squirrel Rehabilitation Donations for Wildlife Conservation