Happy Squirrel Appreciation Day!

As someone who has seven fruit trees and way too much unwanted harvesting by critters, here’s something I never thought possible. Today (Jan. 21) is National Squirrel Appreciation Day.

Sacramento seems overrun by squirrels; I know my backyard has been a happy habitat for generations.

So, why not learn to enjoy their antics instead of stress over the fruit theft and damage?

According to its organizers, “Squirrel Appreciation Day is marked on January 21 to celebrate the lively, intelligent, and endlessly entertaining small mammals that brighten parks, forests, and suburban yards across the globe. This cheerful observance honors the unique charm of squirrels, from their lightning-fast acrobatics and clever problem-solving to their industrious nut-gathering and bushy-tailed grace.”

Why salute squirrels? They’re not just tree-dwelling rodents with bushy tails and good p.r., say the squirrel supporters. “Created to raise gentle awareness about their ecological importance and to inspire greater fondness for these familiar yet often overlooked neighbors, the day invites people to pause, watch, and appreciate the small wonders these creatures bring to everyday life.”

This is the 25th anniversary of Squirrel Appreciation Day, which started in 2001. Christy Hargrove of Asheville, North Carolina, came up with the idea “as a lighthearted yet meaningful way to draw attention to these often under-appreciated animals and their valuable role in ecosystems,” she said.

Hargrove chose Jan. 21 because it’s in the dead of winter when tree squirrels are busy foraging – and can provide endless entertainment to humans stuck inside and watching. (Dogs will be watching, too.)

Late January also is when Northern California squirrels come out of hibernation – if they ever did stop their busy work.

In the wild, squirrels are a vital part of ecology. Their habit of burying acorns, seeds and nuts makes them responsible for planting countless oaks and other important trees and shrubs. They also are a food source for birds of prey and larger mammals such as foxes.

More than 200 species of squirrels have been identified around the globe. For Sacramento gardeners, the most common is the California ground squirrel, which burrows underground. They live in large colonies – often more than two dozen members – and damage a wide variety of crops. Although they may be “ground” squirrels, they spend a lot of time in trees, clamoring after fruit and another things they can eat. They gnaw on bark and can girdle a tree, killing it.

Ground squirrels also can damage roots with their burrowing and often chew up irrigation drip lines, looking for water.

The best way to tackle ground squirrels? Monitor their behavior and be consistent. Start by attacking their habitat.