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National Squirrel Appreciation Day

Celebrate National Squirrel Appreciation Day with a special treat for your backyard friends - show them some love and appreciation!

Thursday

January 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEJanuary 21

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAnimals

SUBCATEGORYWildlife

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

January 21 is National Squirrel Appreciation Day, a day to show love and appreciation for the furry critters that inhabit our parks and backyards! This holiday was created in 2001 by Christy Hargrove, who wanted to raise awareness of the importance of squirrels in our environment. From collecting nuts for food during winter months to providing entertainment with their acrobatic antics, there's no denying these little creatures are an integral part of nature.

TIMELINE

National Squirrel Appreciation Day Timeline

Squirrels Introduced to Parks

In the mid-1800s, squirrels were intentionally introduced to urban parks to "beautify and add interest" to the green spaces.

Squirrel as Mascot

The Michigan State University selected a squirrel as their mascot for interscholastic activities.

Squirrel Population Study

The Hawk Mountain Sanctuary in Pennsylvania began a 45-year-long squirrel population study, one of the longest of its kind.

Flying Squirrel Discovered

Scientists discovered a new species of flying squirrel in the Pacific Northwest, later named the Humboldt's flying squirrel.

National Squirrel Appreciation Day

Wildlife rehabilitator Christy Hargrove officially declares January 21 as National Squirrel Appreciation Day.

White Squirrel Documentary

BBC released a documentary focusing on a rare white squirrel population in the UK, further raising interest and awareness in squirrels.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Squirrel Appreciation Day

Feed the squirrels

Take some nuts and seeds to your local park and let the squirrels have a feast. Make sure to keep a safe distance so they don't feel threatened.

MAKE

Make a squirrel craft

Get creative and make your own squirrel out of paper, clay, or fabric. You can even use other materials like twigs, leaves, feathers, and even natural objects like stones and shells.

PUT

Put up a bird feeder

Put up a bird feeder in an area with lots of trees to attract squirrels from miles around. Not only will it bring in beautiful birds but also the ever curious squirrels!

WATCH

Watch a movie about squirrels

Rent or stream a movie that features our furry friends. "Over the Hedge" is a great option for kids and adults alike.

TAKE

Take pictures of squirrels

Head outside and take pictures of squirrels doing their thing. They're always full of energy so you'll be sure to get some great shots!

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Squirrel Appreciation Day is Important

Squirrels bring joy and entertainment

Watching squirrels play and interact with each other can bring a smile to anyone's face. National Squirrel Appreciation Day is a reminder to slow down and appreciate the simple moments of joy that these curious and playful creatures bring us.

Squirrels play an important role in the ecosystem

Squirrels are not just cute and fluffy, they are also crucial to the health of our environment. They help with seed dispersal and are an important food source for other animals. National Squirrel Appreciation Day reminds us to recognize and value their role in our ecosystem.

Squirrels are fascinating creatures

From their acrobatic abilities to their unique behaviors, squirrels are truly fascinating animals. National Squirrel Appreciation Day encourages us to learn more about these creatures and appreciate their intelligence and adaptability.