One of the most magical things about spending time with wild squirrels is seeing how their lives change with the seasons. Through every month, in sunshine or snow, they adapt—and as I return to the same park week after week, I get to watch those changes unfold right in front of me.
Spring: New Life and Curiosity
Spring is full of energy. After the quiet of winter, squirrels return to full activity—running, climbing, chasing one another across the trees. This is also baby season. You may spot young squirrels for the first time, smaller and fluffier, often following their mothers or playing near the nest.
Their fur looks fresh and sleek after winter shedding, and their appetite is strong. I often see them gathering food more actively, building new nests, and exploring areas they avoided in the colder months.
Summer: Bold, Busy, and Social
By summer, the squirrels are in full swing. This is when they seem most confident and bold—many will come closer than usual, recognizing familiar humans and trusting the routine of feeding.
Their coats are thinner and lighter to cope with the heat. I’ve noticed that some prefer eating in shaded areas or even lying flat on cool tree branches to rest. Summer also brings more interaction between squirrels—playful chases, disputes over food, and shared sunbathing spots on tree limbs.
Autumn: Gathering and Hiding
Autumn is the season of preparation. Squirrels become focused and intense, gathering food and hiding it in dozens of small caches around the park. I’ve watched the same squirrel bury five or six nuts within minutes—each one placed with care, then covered with leaves or soil.
Their coats start to thicken again, and you’ll notice a more serious, sometimes secretive behavior. They take food quickly, often without eating it right away. It’s a season of instinct and urgency—and fascinating to watch.
Winter: Stillness and Surprises
In winter, everything slows down. But squirrels don’t hibernate—they just become less active. Some days, I see none. On others, one or two may appear suddenly, especially during sunny afternoons.
Their coats are at their fullest—soft, thick, and fluffy, especially around the tail and belly. When snow falls, their footprints are sometimes the only sign they were there. I’ve filmed moments where a squirrel cautiously steps through snow to reach a nut I left, or eats while snowflakes gather on its back.
Despite the cold, there’s a peaceful beauty in these encounters. Everything is quieter, but still alive.
A Year of Stories
Watching squirrels through the year has given me a deeper appreciation for their resilience and rhythm. Each season brings its own behaviors, challenges, and charm—and capturing those shifts through photos and videos helps me tell their story.
Whether it’s a playful jump in spring or a quiet moment in the snow, these little animals remind me that nature is always changing—and always worth paying attention to.