Squirrel Appreciation Day is an opportunity to enjoy and appreciate your tree-climbing, nut-gathering neighborhood squirrels. This January 21 holiday is held in mid-winter when food sources are scarce for squirrels and other wildlife. Sure, squirrels spent all fall gathering and “squirreling ” away food. But, their supplies may not be enough. And, the variety of food is limited. So, give them an extra special treat today to supplement their winter diets.

Not everyone likes squirrels. While they are fun to watch skirting around the yard and trees, they are aggressive at bird feeders. Squirrels tip almost any bird feeder and spill the seeds in search of the particular seeds they want. In the fall, they attack pumpkins on front porches in search of the seeds inside. Gardeners consider them a pest, as they dig up and steal flower bulbs, and may eat some of the veggies in your garden.   

When you think about it, mid-winter is the best time to appreciate squirrels. In the winter they provide a little entertainment. Even gardeners may like them on a cold winter’s day when they are not feeding upon flower and vegetable gardens.

According to Christy Hargrove, the founder, “Celebration of the event itself is up to the individual or group — anything from putting out extra food for the squirrels to learning something new about the species.”