Squirrel

Squirrel (also called dabangaale in Somali) is the Somali name for a small mammal belonging to the family Sciuridae. It is a rodent, characterized by two upper and two lower front teeth in the upper and lower jaws that grow continuously, and the animal must gnaw to keep them worn down.

Squirrels are recognizable by their long, bushy tail, large eyes, and rounded ears suited to climbing trees. They are found on most continents except Australia and Antarctica. There are tree-dwelling species, ground-dwelling species that dig burrows, and flying squirrels that glide through the air using a membrane that stretches between the sides of the body.

Classification

The family Sciuridae comprises hundreds of recognized species. They are typically divided into three major groups: tree squirrels (arboreal), ground squirrels (which include marmots and prairie dogs), and flying squirrels. Africa is home to numerous native species, including those living in forests and those living on the ground.

Diet and behavior

Their diet consists mainly of seeds and hard fruits, nuts, bark, and occasionally insects and bird eggs. Many species cache food in burrows or other locations to use during harsh seasons. This practice of scattered storage causes many seeds to germinate in the soil and sprout, making squirrels part of the dispersal process for trees.

Reproduction and life

Squirrels build nests in tree branches, tree hollows, or ground burrows. Young are born blind and hairless, and the mother cares for them until they can move about on their own. Some species in cold regions enter a state of deep sleep during winter (hibernation), while species in warm climates remain active throughout the year.