Squirrels stay cool by resting in shade, lying flat on cool surfaces, and limiting activity during peak heat. They also drink more water and sploot on their bellies to release body heat.
Squirrels are known for their high energy and constant activity, but hot weather often forces them to slow down. Just like people, they have their own ways of staying cool, and their behavior changes noticeably when temperatures rise.
What do squirrels do when hot?
When temperatures climb, squirrels seek shade under trees, shrubs, or any cool surface to escape the direct sun. They also reduce their activity during the hottest hours, saving their energy for mornings and evenings when it’s cooler.
Another common behavior is “splooting,” where squirrels lie flat on their bellies with legs stretched out. This position helps release body heat and absorb coolness from the ground or branches they’re resting on.
How do squirrels keep cool in extreme heat?
Squirrels rely on several survival tactics to regulate their body temperature when the heat becomes intense. They retreat into tree cavities, shaded nests, or leafy canopies where the air is cooler and sunlight is blocked.
They also pant lightly, much like dogs, to release excess heat through their mouths. By limiting movement during the day and staying hidden in cooler spots, squirrels can avoid overheating even during long summer afternoons.
What is “splooting” and why do squirrels do it?
Splooting is when a squirrel lies flat on its belly with its legs stretched out behind or to the side. This posture exposes more of their body to cooler surfaces like soil, grass, or shaded tree limbs, helping them release trapped body heat.
It’s a simple but effective way for squirrels to cool down quickly on hot days. Many people notice squirrels splooting on sidewalks, decks, or shaded patches of ground during the summer as a natural response to high temperatures.
Do squirrels change their eating or drinking habits in hot weather?
During hot days, squirrels often seek out water sources more frequently to stay hydrated. They may drink from puddles, birdbaths, pet bowls, or other available spots when natural water sources are scarce.
Their diet also shifts slightly to include more water-rich foods like fruits and tender vegetation. By adding moisture to their food intake, squirrels can supplement hydration while continuing to forage.
Can squirrels overheat or die from heat?
Yes, squirrels can suffer from heat stress or even die if temperatures climb too high and water or shade isn’t available. Overheating often leads to dehydration, weakness, and in severe cases, heatstroke.
Young, sick, or elderly squirrels are the most vulnerable during extreme heatwaves. Without proper shelter or hydration, they may struggle to survive prolonged exposure to high temperatures.
How do baby squirrels handle hot weather?
Baby squirrels depend on their mothers and the protection of the nest to survive hot conditions. A shaded, insulated nest built in a tree cavity or leafy branch helps shield them from direct sun and keeps temperatures more stable.
However, if a nest is poorly insulated or exposed, the young can quickly overheat. Since they cannot regulate their body temperature as well as adults, baby squirrels are at higher risk during long stretches of summer heat.
What can homeowners do to help squirrels in summer?
Homeowners can support local squirrels during hot weather by maintaining shaded areas like trees, shrubs, or ground cover. Providing shallow bowls of clean water or birdbaths also gives squirrels a safe place to hydrate when natural sources run dry.
It’s equally important to keep water containers shallow to prevent drowning and place them in shaded, low-traffic areas. These small efforts can make a big difference for wildlife struggling through extreme summer heat.
Final Take: Squirrel Survival in Hot Weather
Squirrels have clever ways of coping with the heat, from splooting on cool surfaces to hiding in shade and adjusting their activity patterns. These behaviors help them survive even during the hottest summer afternoons.
Still, extreme temperatures can put them at risk, especially young or vulnerable squirrels. By understanding their habits, homeowners can better recognize signs of heat stress and take simple steps to support local wildlife.
Call AAAC Wildlife Removal for Squirrel Problems!
While squirrels can usually handle the heat, they sometimes enter attics or crawlspaces seeking cooler shelter. This can lead to chewed wires, damaged insulation, and unwanted noise in your home.
AAAC Wildlife Removal specializes in humane squirrel control and exclusion, keeping your property safe while helping the animals relocate to natural habitats. If squirrels are causing trouble around your home.
