Judy Taylor
Introduction: Eastern Grey Squirrels and Pavement Licking
Eastern Grey Squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis) are commonly found in North America, especially in urban and suburban areas. These squirrels are known for their bushy tails and their ability to climb trees and buildings with ease. One interesting behavior observed in eastern grey squirrels is pavement licking. This behavior involves squirrels licking the pavement or concrete surfaces, and has puzzled scientists and animal enthusiasts alike. In this article, we will explore the possible explanations for pavement licking in eastern grey squirrels.
Possible Explanations for Pavement Licking
There are several possible explanations for pavement licking in eastern grey squirrels. One of the most commonly proposed explanations is that pavement licking is a result of nutrient deficiency. Some researchers have suggested that squirrels may be seeking minerals or salts that are lacking in their diet. Pavement and concrete surfaces may contain these minerals, which could explain why squirrels are drawn to them.
Nutrient Deficiency as an Explanation
While there is some evidence to suggest that nutrient deficiency may be a factor in pavement licking, it is not clear whether this is the primary explanation. Research has shown that eastern grey squirrels have a varied diet that includes nuts, seeds, fruits, and insects. In fact, studies have found that squirrels living in urban areas have access to a wider variety of food sources than those in rural areas. Additionally, eastern grey squirrels have been observed licking other surfaces, such as rocks, tree bark, and human-made objects. This suggests that pavement licking may be just one of many behaviors that squirrels engage in to obtain nutrients.
Parasites and Pavement Licking
Another possible explanation for pavement licking is that it is a response to parasites. Squirrels are known to host a variety of parasites, including fleas, ticks, and mites. Some researchers have suggested that pavement licking may be a way for squirrels to rid themselves of these parasites. It is possible that the rough texture of pavement and concrete surfaces helps to dislodge parasites from the squirrels’ fur. However, this theory has not been fully tested, and more research is needed to determine whether parasites play a role in pavement licking.
Pavement Licking as a Thermoregulatory Behaviour
Pavement licking may also be a thermoregulatory behavior. In hot weather, pavement and concrete surfaces can become very hot, and squirrels may lick them to cool down. This behavior has been observed in other animals, such as dogs and cats, who will lie on cool surfaces to lower their body temperature. However, this theory has not been tested in eastern grey squirrels specifically.
Pavement Licking as a Social Behaviour
Eastern grey squirrels are social animals, and pavement licking may be a way for them to communicate with each other. It is possible that pavement licking leaves a scent or taste that other squirrels can detect, and that this helps them to recognize each other or establish dominance hierarchies. However, there is limited research on this theory, and more studies are needed to confirm it.
Pavement Licking as a Response to Environmental Changes
Urbanization and other environmental changes may also be a factor in pavement licking. As urban areas expand, squirrels may be forced to adapt to new environments and food sources. Pavement and concrete surfaces are abundant in urban areas, and squirrels may be exploring these surfaces to find new sources of food or shelter.
Pavement Licking and Competition for Food
Competition for food may also be a factor in pavement licking. In urban areas, squirrels may have to compete with other animals, such as pigeons and rats, for food. Pavement licking may be a way for squirrels to obtain food that other animals are not interested in.
Pavement Licking and Urbanization
Finally, pavement licking may be a way for eastern grey squirrels to adapt to urbanization. As cities and suburbs continue to grow, squirrels may be forced to find new ways to survive. Pavement licking may be one of many behaviors that squirrels have developed to cope with these changes.
Conclusion: What Explains Pavement Licking in Eastern Grey Squirrels?
In conclusion, there are several possible explanations for pavement licking in eastern grey squirrels. Nutrient deficiency, parasites, thermoregulation, social behavior, environmental changes, competition for food, and urbanization may all play a role in this behavior. However, more research is needed to determine the primary explanation for pavement licking in eastern grey squirrels. Understanding this behavior may help us to better understand how animals adapt to changes in their environment, and how we can coexist with them in urban areas.
