Can Squirrels Swim? Are They Good Swimmer’s OR Not?
Do you like watching squirrels run around outside? Did you ever wonder if squirrels can swim? The answer is yes, they can! Squirrels are wild rodents that are very active and can climb trees and fences easily, but they can also swim to survive. Although they might not be the best swimmers, they can use their tails to help them steer while swimming.
But did you know that flying squirrels can’t swim? This is because their webbed feet that help them fly actually make it hard for them to move in the water. Even for regular squirrels, swimming can be difficult because they have small bodies and can get tired easily. Sometimes, squirrels accidentally fall into pools and can’t get out, which can cause them to drown.[acf field=”Schema”]
Swimming Squirrels
Since squirrels have weak bodies then why do they swim in the first place? the answer to that is normally squirrels don’t swim. However, there comes a time of survival, and to survive they end up being in the water. Sometimes, they are being chased by predators and end up in the water and there is no other way except going into the water for them.
In these cases, they tend to try to swim and think it is the easiest way to get through. There is another case in which there are trained squirrels, they are trained in swimming and they have a better chance of surviving than other squirrels.
Squirrels are also known to have swum when they are migrating, and the easiest way to get to their destination is by just passing the lake or pond, they will tend to swim. However, not all squirrels can swim some have weak bodies and they end up drowning because they become tired.
For Extra Reading: Do They Drink Milk
Getting Squirrels Out Of Pool
Pools can be quite troublesome for the squirrels as the sides of the pools are quite slippery and it becomes hard for squirrels to get out of the pool because of that. Swimming is extremely tiring for squirrels due to their weak bodies they can’t swim for a long time. So, if not helped they end up drowning in the pool.
If you find a squirrel in a pool then you should try to help it out by using the pool net, step a little back from the pool and help the squirrel reach the pool net by extending the pool net. The squirrel may attempt to run over the pool but don’t be afraid as squirrels try to avoid contact too and when the squirrel will see a dry place it will jump to that and leave.
However, for some reason you don’t want to take the risk you can just call the wildlife agency and they will gladly help you, and in some states agencies charge for these visits. If you found a dead squirrel in the pool you can remove it using a pool net or call the agency and get it removed. Either way, it won’t harm other swimmers as chlorine in the pool removes any bacteria or germs present in the pool.
Conclusion
To summarize, squirrels can swim but they prefer not to unless there is a special condition. Without an appropriate need, squirrels won’t swim however they can swim to protect themselves, or when looking for food, or when migrating. They are agile creatures and get tired easily when swimming and if you find a squirrel in trouble, you can help it or call the agency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1:Why do squirrels drown in the pool?
The slippery sides of the pool make it hard for the squirrels to get out and in the pools, squirrels can easily get in but getting out is hard. After trying to get out, they get tired and drowned so if you find a squirrel in distress you should help it out.
Q2:Do squirrels swim in water?
Squirrels can indeed swim but flying squirrels as their webs become a hindrance in movement and squirrels are good swimmers but the slippery surface of the pool makes it hard for squirrels to get out of the water and they eventually drown.
Related Post:
