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Squirrel Awareness Month

It's time to go nuts for Squirrel Awareness Month! Learn about these furry creatures and how you can help protect their habitats.

Thursday

1–31

October 2026

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

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YEARLY DATEAll of October

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAnimals

SUBCATEGORYWildlife

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to go nuts for SQUIRREL AWARENESS MONTH, which takes place throughout the entire month of October! This annual observance was created to raise awareness about these cute and mischievous little creatures and their importance in our ecosystem. Did you know that there are over 200 species of squirrels, and they can be found on every continent except for Antarctica? From their acrobatic skills to their love for hoarding food, there's always something fascinating to learn about squirrels. So let's embrace this month as a chance to appreciate and protect these furry critters – after all, they play an important role in maintaining a healthy environment for all of us.

TIMELINE

Squirrel Awareness Month Timeline

Squirrel Introductions

In the 1800s, squirrels were introduced into parks to create a more bucolic and relaxing environment for urban dwellers.

National Wildlife Federation Founded

The National Wildlife Federation was founded, providing protection for squirrels and their habitats among other wildlife conservation efforts.

Rise of Urban Squirrels

Caused by urbanization, populations of city-dwelling squirrels started to grow rapidly, solidifying their status as a common urban wildlife sight.

Squirrel Species Protection Act

An act was passed in certain U.S states ensuring protection for certain species of squirrels deemed endangered.

Creation of Squirrel Awareness Month

In the U.S, October was declared "Squirrel Awareness Month," with campaigns run to inform people about the importance and protection of squirrels.

Research on Squirrel Behavior

Groundbreaking studies unfolded understanding squirrels' complex storing behavior and their role in forest regeneration.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Squirrel Awareness Month

Go on a squirrel scavenger hunt

Create a list of different types of squirrels and their habitats, then go on a nature walk to see how many you can find. This activity promotes both awareness and appreciation for these furry creatures.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer at a squirrel rescue center

Squirrel rescue centers are always in need of volunteers to help care for injured or orphaned squirrels. Use this month as an opportunity to give back to these animals and learn more about their needs.

HOST

Host a squirrel-themed party

Invite friends over for a party dedicated to squirrels! Decorate with acorns and leaves, serve snacks that squirrels enjoy like nuts and seeds, and play games centered around squirrels.

WATCH

Watch a documentary about squirrels

There are many informative and entertaining documentaries about squirrels that can help increase awareness about these animals. Gather some friends or family and watch one together.

CREATE

Create squirrel-themed crafts

Get creative and make squirrel-inspired crafts like pinecone bird feeders, paper plate masks, or handprint paintings. These activities are fun for all ages and can also serve as a reminder to appreciate and protect squirrels.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love Squirrel Awareness Month

Encourage conservation efforts

Unfortunately, many squirrel populations are facing threats such as loss of habitat and competition with non-native species. By raising awareness during Squirrel Awareness Month, we can also promote actions to help protect and conserve these cute and important animals.

Raise awareness for a cute and often misunderstood animal

Squirrels are adorable creatures that often get a bad reputation as pesky rodents. Squirrel Awareness Month is a great opportunity to educate others on the positive aspects of squirrels, such as their role in seed dispersal and their playful behaviors.

Learn about different species of squirrels

Did you know that there are over 200 species of squirrels around the world? Squirrel Awareness Month is a great time to expand your knowledge and learn about the various types of squirrels, from the iconic gray squirrel to more exotic species like flying squirrels.

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