National Squirrel Appreciation Day is a holiday dedicated to celebrating and showing kindness to our bushy-tailed neighbors who play a vital role in our ecosystem.
Quick Facts
When is it: January 21st annually
Tagged as: Wildlife appreciation day
What’s the hashtag: #SquirrelAppreciationDay
When was it founded: 2001
Who founded it: Christy Hargrove, wildlife rehabilitator at North Carolina Nature Center
History
The holiday began in Asheville, North Carolina, as an initiative to encourage people to be kind to squirrels by providing food and water. With over 250 species of squirrels existing across five continents, these creatures have become an integral part of urban and natural landscapes, contributing to forest renewal through their nut-storing habits.
Timeline
• 1847: First documented urban squirrel introduction in Philadelphia’s Franklin Square
• 1850: Boston and New Haven introduce squirrels to city parks
• 1968: Hawk Mountain Sanctuary begins 45-year squirrel population study
• 1987: Discovery of new flying squirrel species in Pacific Northwest
• 2001: First official National Squirrel Appreciation Day celebration
Upcoming Dates
| Year | Month | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | January | 21 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | January | 21 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | January | 21 | Thursday |
| 2028 | January | 21 | Friday |
| 2029 | January | 21 | Sunday |
How It’s Observed
People celebrate by putting out extra food for squirrels, watching documentaries, visiting parks to observe them, and sharing squirrel photos on social media. Some organize educational events about squirrel conservation.
Fun Facts About Squirrels
• Their front teeth grow 6 inches per year
• A group of squirrels is called a “scurry” or “dray”
• The smallest squirrel is the African pygmy at 3 inches long
• The largest is the Indian giant squirrel at 3 feet long
• They help in forest renewal by accidentally planting trees
Quiz
- What family do squirrels belong to?
- How many species of squirrels exist worldwide?
- Which continent doesn’t have native squirrels?
(Answers: 1. Sciuridae, 2. Over 250, 3. Australia)
FAQs
• Are squirrels found worldwide?
Yes, except in Australia and Antarctica.
• Do squirrels hibernate?
No, they remain active year-round but may reduce activity in winter.
• What do squirrels eat?
Primarily nuts and seeds, but they may also eat insects and eggs when food is scarce.
Related Celebrations
• Wildlife Conservation Day
• World Animal Day
• Nature Photography Day
• World Environment Day
• Forest Day