8. They are Surprisingly Acrobatic Athletes

The physical abilities of the gray squirrel are nothing short of astounding. They are built for a three-dimensional world of branches and vertical surfaces, and their anatomy reflects this lifestyle. An adult gray squirrel can leap more than 4 feet (1.2 m) vertically and can cover distances of up to 20 feet (6 m) in a horizontal jump between trees, using its tail for balance and steering.

Their running speed on the ground is equally impressive, capable of reaching up to 15 miles per hour (24 km/h) in short bursts to evade predators. But their true mastery is in climbing. They have sharp, curved claws that can grip even the slightest irregularity in tree bark.

Perhaps their most remarkable adaptation is their double-jointed ankles. A gray squirrel can rotate its hind feet 180 degrees. This unique flexibility allows them to grip the tree with their back claws while descending, enabling them to climb down a tree head-first. Most mammals, including cats, must back down a tree. This ability gives squirrels a major advantage in speed and agility when escaping threats.

Their problem-solving skills, combined with this athleticism, are why they are such formidable opponents for anyone trying to create a “squirrel-proof” bird feeder. They can chew through plastic, lift complex lids, and perform incredible leaps to reach a food source. Watching them navigate these man-made obstacle courses is a testament to their intelligence and physical prowess.