A Lot More To Them Than You Think
Squirrels are commonly thought of as disease-carrying “pests” and “nuisances” who raid bird feeders, chew through wood and wiring, and dart in front of cars. However, these “pests” have a lot to contribute. They are an important part of a healthy ecosystem, according to a noted University of Florida researcher and ecologist.
An Important Part Of The Ecosystem
Robert McCleery, an associate professor in the UF Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences’ department of wildlife ecology and conservation, has spent most of his career studying squirrels. He’s dedicated his life to spreading awareness about these fascinating species, saying, “Squirrels are some of the most visible wildlife in our modern urban and suburban settings, and they are a vital part of the ecosystems they inhabit.”