I used to see squirrels as nothing more than twitchy-tailed troublemakers—stealing birdseed, digging holes, and causing a ruckus. But once I took a closer look, I realized there’s more to these backyard acrobats than meets the eye.
Before you chase them off with a broom, here are 16 surprising reasons why letting squirrels stick around might be the smartest move for your yard.
1. Natural Gardeners
Squirrels accidentally plant thousands of trees every year! When they bury nuts and seeds for winter, they only remember about 80% of their hiding spots. The forgotten treasures often sprout into new trees and plants.
Your backyard helpers are constantly planting oak trees, pine trees, and other plants without even trying. Many forests actually depend on squirrels for regeneration and growth.
2. Free Pest Control
Hungry squirrels gobble up many insects that might otherwise damage your garden. They snack on beetles, caterpillars, and other bugs that could harm your plants.
While they’re primarily nut-eaters, squirrels are opportunistic and will happily help themselves to pesky insects. This natural pest control service comes at absolutely no cost to you!
3. Forest Regenerators
Ever wonder how forests spread? Squirrels are master seed dispersers! They carry nuts and seeds far from parent trees, creating ideal conditions for new growth in fresh locations.
Without these furry foresters, many tree species would struggle to spread their seeds effectively. Oak trees especially rely on squirrels to transport their heavy acorns to new growing spots.
4. Nature’s Entertainment
Watching squirrels leap, chase, and play provides endless entertainment right outside your window. Their acrobatic skills and silly antics are better than any TV show, especially for kids learning to appreciate wildlife.
Many people actually set up special squirrel obstacle courses in their yards for amusement. Their playful personalities and curious nature make them fascinating backyard companions.
5. Educational Opportunities
Squirrels offer amazing learning chances for children and adults alike. Watching their behaviors teaches about food gathering, survival strategies, and animal adaptations in real-time.
Many teachers and parents use backyard squirrels to spark conversations about nature, seasons, and wildlife. Their visible activities throughout the year demonstrate important science concepts like hibernation preparation and territory defense.
6. Soil Aerators
All that digging squirrels do actually helps your soil! When they bury nuts and dig them back up, they’re naturally aerating the ground, allowing better water absorption and root growth for your plants.
Gardeners often have to manually aerate soil to keep it healthy. Squirrels provide this service for free, turning and mixing soil layers while searching for their hidden treasures.
7. Food Web Contributors
Squirrels form an important link in your local food web. They’re a food source for predators like hawks, owls, and foxes that help keep other pest populations in check.
Removing squirrels might unexpectedly reduce visits from these magnificent predators. A healthy ecosystem needs all its parts, and squirrels play a vital role in maintaining this natural balance in your neighborhood.
8. Mushroom Spreaders
Surprisingly, squirrels help spread beneficial fungi throughout your yard! They eat mushrooms and their droppings distribute fungal spores that form relationships with plant roots.
These relationships, called mycorrhizal networks, help your trees and plants absorb more nutrients and water. Think of squirrels as tiny gardeners planting the underground fungal networks that keep your plants thriving.
9. Biodiversity Boosters
Having squirrels around actually attracts other wildlife to your yard. Their presence signals to birds and other small creatures that your space is safe and has food resources.
A yard with squirrels typically becomes a mini wildlife sanctuary over time. Many homeowners report seeing increased bird species and other small mammals after squirrels establish themselves in the area.
10. Cleanup Crew
Fallen fruits and nuts can make a mess of your yard, but squirrels help clean up! They’ll gather dropped apples, walnuts, and other tree fruits that would otherwise rot on the ground.
This natural cleanup service reduces the need for raking and yard work. It also helps prevent unwanted insects that might be attracted to rotting fruit on your lawn.
11. Weather Forecasters
Farmers have relied on squirrel behavior as weather predictors for generations. When you notice squirrels gathering extra nuts or building bigger nests, it often signals a harsh winter ahead.
Their natural instincts are surprisingly accurate! Many outdoor enthusiasts watch squirrel activity patterns to help predict seasonal changes. Their behaviors can give you a heads-up before weather shifts.
12. Mood Boosters
Studies show that watching wildlife improves mental health and reduces stress. Squirrels’ playful antics can lift your mood after a tough day at school or work.
Their constant energy and seemingly carefree attitude reminds us to enjoy simple pleasures. Many people report feeling more connected to nature and experiencing reduced anxiety when they regularly observe backyard squirrels.
13. Indicator Species
Healthy squirrel populations indicate a healthy environment. Their presence and behavior can alert you to environmental problems before they become obvious.
Scientists consider squirrels to be “indicator species” – animals whose population changes reflect environmental conditions. A sudden decrease in squirrel activity might signal pollution, predator imbalances, or disease affecting your local ecosystem.
14. Bird Feeder Protectors
Ironically, squirrels can actually protect your bird feeders from worse pests! Their regular visits often scare away rats and mice that might otherwise take up residence.
While squirrels might eat some bird seed, they’re much preferable to having rodent infestations. Many homeowners find that maintaining a separate squirrel feeding station keeps them happy and diverts them from bird feeders.
15. Winter Wildlife Viewing
When other animals hibernate or migrate, squirrels remain active all winter long. They provide rare wildlife viewing opportunities during cold months when the yard seems empty of life.
Their tracks in fresh snow tell stories of their daily adventures. Many people especially enjoy watching squirrels navigate winter landscapes, bringing movement and life to otherwise quiet winter yards.
16. Natural Yard Art
Squirrel nests, called dreys, add interesting natural elements to your trees. These round leaf balls are skillfully crafted homes that add character and wild charm to your landscape.
The architectural skills of squirrels are impressive – they weave twigs, leaves, and moss into weatherproof shelters. Many homeowners appreciate these natural decorations as part of their yard’s wild aesthetic.