![]() Squirrels can also contract diseases that may shorten their lifespan. These traits make them quite adept at avoiding predators. Squirrels though are quite lucky in this regard because they are gifted with keen eyesight, amazing reflexes, quick speed, and the ability to climb with ease. The level of predation that a squirrel faces is also a factor. Squirrels that live in colder climates have shorter lifespans because they cannot store as much fat as those living in warmer climates, which makes them more susceptible to predators and less likely to reach adulthood. The climate in the area where it lives also plays a role in determining how long a squirrel will live. Eastern Grey Squirrels, for example, typically live between three and four years while Fox Squirrels live between four and six years. SpeciesĪnother factor that affects the lifespan of a squirrel is its species – some squirrels live longer than others. Squirrels living high up in the mountains in very cold climates tend to grow big, like the giant flying squirrel, while those living in warmer areas have a much smaller size. For example, red squirrels typically only live about one year because they die from starvation or predation before reaching adulthood.Īlong with lifespan, a squirrel’s habitat also influences how big squirrels grow. The natural habitat of various types of squirrels will determine their average lifespan. Here are common factors that affect squirrel’s longevity: Living in an urban environment, such as someone’s backyard, is far different than living out on the grasslands where there are many predators and limited resources to find food. ![]() Habitat is one of the most important factors that play a role in determining how long they can live. There are several factors that can affect the longevity of a squirrel. ![]() Factors That Affect a Squirrel’s Lifespan Captive squirrels can typically expect to live as long as 16 years or even more depending on how well they are cared for and what type of squirrel it is. In addition to this, captive squirrels will have medical care if they become ill which further increases the duration of their life. One reason for this is because these animals no longer face any predators and typically receive better food and shelter compared to what they would get in the wild. Squirrels that live out their lives in captivity tend to have much longer life expectancies than those living free in their natural habitat. Those who do not fall prey to larger mammals typically perish from among other things like disease and harsh weather conditions. In general, however, most young squirrels are killed or eaten before reaching full adulthood themselves. If they are able to avoid being eaten in their first 2 years, then their chances of dying are significantly decreased. The biggest factor in determining the lifespan of a squirrel is due to predators such as hawks, foxes, bobcats, and humans. The first two years of a squirrel’s life are the most vulnerable and most do not make it to their second birthday. Squirrels have a pretty good life span in nature assuming they live past their second year. In their habitats, however, it is typical for squirrels to live between two and three years. In captivity, some squirrels have been known to live as long as 16 years with proper care. Living either in the wild or in captivity has a large impact on the lifespan of a squirrel. The average lifespan for a squirrel is about two years, but it varies from species to species and depends on the habitat that they live in. This article will explore a squirrel’s lifespan and the factors that determine how long they will live. The life span of a squirrel is typically between about two and four years, but this can vary depending on a few different factors. And compared to other rodents, squirrels have a pretty good life expectancy. Their inquisitive nature and ability to find food in a variety of environments make them quite resilient. Squirrels are rodents that have adapted quite well in urban areas.
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