Squirrel Appreciation Day (January 21)

ByClare Brown Posted on Updated on

Squirrel Appreciation Day, celebrated on January 21, is a fun opportunity to learn more about these energetic little creatures and find ways to support them in your local environment.

From feeding them nutritious snacks to enjoying squirrel-themed crafts, there are plenty of ways to participate.

This unique celebration highlights the importance of squirrels in our ecosystem and offers an excuse to embrace some squirrel-themed fun.

Keep reading to discover the history, facts, and activities for this wacky holiday in January.

When is the Holiday?

It takes place every year on January 21st. It’s a day dedicated to celebrating and supporting squirrels by offering food, learning more about them, and appreciating their role in nature.

Who Invented It?

The day was founded in 2001 by Christy McKeown, a wildlife rehabilitator from North Carolina. Affiliated with the Western North Carolina Nature Center, McKeown created the holiday to raise awareness about the challenges squirrels face, particularly during the colder months when food is scarce.

Inspired by her work with injured and orphaned squirrels, McKeown wanted to encourage people to put out food and create safe spaces for these animals. Her initiative has helped communities develop a greater appreciation for squirrels and their role in the ecosystem.

Since its inception, the holiday has gained nationwide recognition, with individuals and organizations taking part in educational and conservation activities to support local wildlife.

The History of the Holiday

Squirrel Appreciation Day was established to raise awareness about these furry creatures and their importance in the ecosystem.

Over the years, it has gained popularity, with people across the world participating by feeding squirrels, learning about their behavior, and even engaging in squirrel-themed crafts and activities.

In recent years, social media has played a significant role in spreading awareness about squirrels.

Many nature lovers and educators have used platforms like Instagram and TikTok to share fun facts, photos, and tips for coexisting peacefully with squirrels.

Schools and community groups have also embraced the holiday, organizing events such as squirrel-themed scavenger hunts and educational talks.

As urbanization continues to expand, the day serves as a gentle reminder of the importance of preserving natural habitats and fostering respect for all wildlife, no matter how small.

Top 5 Facts About the Holiday

  1. Squirrels are found on six continents, with Antarctica being the only exception.
  2. The idea for the holiday came from a wildlife rehabilitator who wanted to help people connect with local wildlife.
  3. A group of squirrels is called a scurry.
  4. The earliest squirrel fossils date back around 30 million years.
  5. Some squirrel species, like the Arctic ground squirrel, can hibernate for up to eight months.
squirrel eating a nut

**This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate and a participant in other affiliate programs, I earn a commission on qualifying purchases.**

Activities to Celebrate

Related Recipes for the Holiday

  • Squirrel cookies: Make adorable squirrel-shaped cookies with royal icing, using a variety of icing colors to decorate them creatively.
  • Squirrel pie: A traditional dish inspired by historical recipes, made with hearty ingredients like nuts and dried fruits.
  • Squirrel feed recipe: Mix unsalted nuts, seeds, and dried fruits to create a nutritious and tasty treat for local squirrels.

Links to Resources

Related Holidays

Pin it!

Share this post on Day on Pinterest!