Does Anyone Care about New York City’s Squirrels?

You might think that anyone who counts squirrels in a park must be nuts, but that's what more than 300 volunteers spent 11 days doing in 2018 in one of the busiest parks in the world: Manhattan's Central Park. At its conclusion, the first-ever Central Park Squirrel Census determined that 2,373 eastern gray squirrels call the 840-acre park home. The purpose of the project wasn't just to force folks to take a walk in the park. As project founder Jamie Allen explained, despite sharing common spaces with people for more than 150 years, the squirrel is not very well understood in terms of behavior and biology, yet it manages to thrive in a place as bustling as Manhattan. According to the final results, while the squirrels were found pretty much everywhere in the park, 72 percent were spotted on the ground, including one waiting patiently beside a nut-selling street vendor. Allen said that while the census was the first of its kind, there may be more squirrel investigations to come. "We do it for you," he told National Geographic. "We do it for the city. We do it for the squirrels, because it makes us happy."

The scoop on squirrels:

• The University of Richmond says that squirrels can lose almost three-quarters of their food stashes, through forgetfulness, thievery, and other reasons.
• There are 285 species of squirrel around the world, living on every continent except Australia and Antarctica.
• In 2007, Iran "arrested" 14 squirrels near a nuclear enrichment plant, accusing them of spying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should people care about New York City's squirrels?

Caring for New York City's squirrels is important because they play a vital role in the urban ecosystem. They help with seed dispersal, which contributes to the growth of trees and plants. Additionally, their presence adds to the city's biodiversity and provides residents with a connection to wildlife, enhancing the quality of urban life.

What are the threats to squirrels in New York City?

Squirrels in New York City face several threats, including habitat loss due to urban development, vehicle collisions, and potential harm from domestic pets. They are also at risk from diseases and can suffer from malnutrition if they become overly reliant on unhealthy food from human sources.

How can New Yorkers help protect the city's squirrel population?

New Yorkers can help protect squirrels by preserving green spaces, planting native trees, and being mindful of litter that can harm wildlife. Feeding squirrels with appropriate food, like nuts and seeds, in moderation, and advocating for wildlife-friendly urban planning are also ways to support the squirrel population.

Are there any organizations dedicated to protecting New York City's squirrels?

Yes, there are organizations and wildlife rehabilitation centers in New York City dedicated to protecting and caring for urban wildlife, including squirrels. These groups often work on rescue, rehabilitation, and public education to promote coexistence between humans and squirrels.

What role do squirrels play in New York City's parks and green spaces?

Squirrels are an integral part of New York City's parks and green spaces, contributing to the ecological health by aiding in seed dispersal. They also provide an opportunity for city dwellers to engage with nature and observe wildlife behaviors, which can be educational and therapeutic.

Is feeding squirrels in New York City allowed or encouraged?

Feeding squirrels in New York City is a debated topic. While it is not illegal, experts often discourage feeding wildlife because it can lead to overpopulation, dependency on human-provided food, and potential conflicts with people. If one chooses to feed squirrels, it should be done responsibly, with suitable food and in moderation.