Have you ever seen black squirrels in the park or in your backyard and wondered if they were a separate species? Black squirrels are just common gray squirrels with a genetic variation that causes their fur to be black rather than gray. But these cute, furry critters have some surprising qualities that make them stand out from their gray counterparts. In this blog post, we’ll explore some fun facts about black squirrels that you might not know.
Black Squirrels Are More Resilient to Frostbite
Did you know that black squirrels are more resilient to frostbite than gray squirrels? It turns out that the darker fur of black squirrels absorbs more sunlight than gray fur, which can help them maintain body heat in cold weather. This helps them avoid frostbite and stay healthy during the winter months.
Black Squirrels Are More Common in Northern Climates
While black squirrels can be found in many parts of North America, they are more common in northern climates. This is likely due to the fact that their dark fur helps them absorb more heat in colder climates, making it easier for them to survive the winter months.
Black Squirrels Are More Aggressive
When it comes to behavior, black squirrels have been found to be more aggressive than their gray counterparts. In a study conducted at the University of Guelph in Canada, researchers found that black squirrels were more likely to chase and intimidate gray squirrels, and were less likely to back down from a confrontation.
Black Squirrels Have Higher Survival Rates
Despite their aggressive behavior, black squirrels have been found to have higher survival rates than gray squirrels. This may be due to their ability to better adapt to colder climates, as well as their superior ability to compete for food and resources.
Black Squirrels Are Considered Good Luck in Some Cultures
In some cultures, black squirrels are considered to be good luck. For example, in England and Ireland, it is believed that seeing a black squirrel is a sign of good fortune. Similarly, in some Native American cultures, black squirrels are considered to be symbols of protection and good luck.
As you can see, there’s more to black squirrels than meets the eye. From their unique genetic variation to their surprising resilience and behavior, these cute critters have a lot of interesting qualities that make them stand out. So next time you spot a black squirrel at the park or in your backyard, take a moment to appreciate the wonder of nature and these remarkable animals.