Why do Squirrels Itch so much? Rorrel Has An Itch
The latest visitor to my balcony garden is a little squirrel. It is the Indian Palm Squirrel breed more popularly known as the Three Stripped Palm Squirrel. Among its many antics, what caught my attention was its act of scratching itself. Why do squirrels itch so much?
Balcony Garden Visitor
My daughters often scatter a few grains of wheat for the little squirrel and I am assigned the job of taking pictures of the squirrel when it comes to have them. Initially I was getting little impatient and tired of this new assignment, but soon I found this guy to be an entertaining one. This little fellow tiptoes into my balcony garden searching and sniffing for food and I lie flat, crawling on my elbows, inching forward to take good close shots.
Squirrel Watching in My Balcony Garden
These images of my squirrel pet are taken through a glass pane. I am sure though, that the little fellow is aware of my presence, it is not able to smell me or hear my clicks, so doesn’t feel threatened. Many times I found it staring at me, noticing my slow and steady advancing movements and those were my moments of delight for photography. I will be posting more on this, as this little one has become our new wild pet, coming and going at its will.Have you seen squirrels itching themselves? Why do Squirrels Itch so much? While they struggle to itch all over, it is really interesting to capture all those actions in camera.
Why do Squirrels Itch so much?
Rorrel had a severe bout of itch some time back. Thankfully it did not last long. But it was fun watching it struggle to scratch all parts of its body. The squirrels roll in the dust; probably it is their way of getting rid of mites and fleas in their fur. Or another reason could be it was itching from molting. Squirrels get itchy and scratch their fur our out when they molt. I was lucky to get some shots of Rorrel in action. Hope you will enjoy seeing them.
Squirrel Itching Causes
Some common causes of itching in squirrels:
Parasites: Squirrels can be affected by external parasites such as fleas, ticks, or mites. These tiny organisms can bite or irritate the squirrel’s skin, causing itching and discomfort.
Allergies: Squirrels, just like humans, can develop allergies to certain substances in their environment. Allergies can be triggered by things like pollen, certain plants, dust mites, or certain foods. Itchy skin is a common symptom of allergies.
Skin Infections: Squirrels can develop bacterial or fungal infections on their skin, which can lead to itching. These infections can occur if the squirrel has an open wound or if their skin is exposed to unhygienic conditions.
Dry Skin: In dry or cold weather, squirrels may experience dry skin, which can cause itching. Environmental factors, such as low humidity or exposure to harsh elements, can contribute to dry skin.
Dermatitis: Squirrels can develop dermatitis, which is inflammation of the skin. Dermatitis can be caused by various factors, including irritants, chemicals, or contact with certain plants or substances.
Occasional scratching is usually normal behavior for squirrels. However, if you observe excessive scratching, hair loss, or any signs of distress, it may indicate an underlying issue that requires further attention. Consider reaching out to a local wildlife expert, veterinarian, or animal control agency who can provide appropriate guidance and assistance.
You may like these:
Pin this for later
Awww cute pix of li'l Squirry Rorrel 🙂
awwww…super pictures…love rorrel!!
hey cute…..
You actually captured Rorrel from different angles fr these perfect shots! Very cute:)
Cute captures dear! Rorrel really seems to be busy! 🙂
amazing pictures 🙂
Beautiful Indrani, seldom do we get such cute pics
Cute 🙂
Lovely pictures! Enjoyed the post 🙂 The pictures are more effective with the captions 🙂 Thanks!
too cute… very creative!
Haha..cute one:)
So cute pics !
cute!!
Hahaha..Your Rorrel was looking funny in all those captures itching different parts of Body and You captured them very well
Wow!
great capture… i really envy ur luck!
Great action shots!
So cute! Great shots!
What amazing shots! Your wild pet is adorable.
http://ladyfi.wordpress.com/
Adorable pics.
My CC pic is here
Very cute and fun shot of the itching action of rorrel. Great catch of the photo.
LOL – these are great. I've never known someone to have a pet squirrel. Nonetheless, I love the shots.
LOL….lovely shots !
Everyday Cat Visitor
Everyday Melbourne
Everyday Shot
You have wonderful shots of that agile squirrel!
Fun itchy-shots!
Camera Critters at my page, have a lovely weekend.
LOL! Brilliant shots! 🙂
Cute squirrel and beautiful action photos! Very funny!
Adorable !
Oh, so adorable. Love the "poses" especially the last one. You have to be very flexible to reach itchy places. Fantastic action shots. 🙂
Happy weekend!
A Bear Sighting
what a fun shot… love that you captured every moment… so cute.. first time i took a shot of squirrel, I was using digital camera and never really got a good shot of it despite my running after it.. :p
-rache
Great shots!
MY Critters
Thank you Indrani, these are adorable pictures, such a cute squirrel.
An English Girl Rambles
Nice shots- that foot is quite a scratcher!
Great action shots. He's cute.
My cousin came to New Jersey, USA from Germany a couple of years ago and took thousands of pictures of squirrels. He said they didn't have them where he lived.
great pics! rorrel is proving to be a great pet, isnt he???
It´s so cute!
Thanks for passing by my Spanish blog!
Aww thats really cute, poor itchy rorrel. Hope hes fine now!
Makes yo almost want to scratch it all for him!! Adorable pics!
Hugs
SueAnn
Very cute pictures.