More than a pest: Why squirrels are vital to the ecosystem

A squirrel at the University of Guelph Arboretum in Jan. 2025. (Courtesy: Bruce Shapka)

Squirrels are often regarded as pests that steal from your garden, live in your attic or damage your patio furniture; however, the furry creature also fills a vital role when it comes to the health of our ecosystem.

Dr. James Hare, professor emeritus in biological sciences at the University of Manitoba, has been studying squirrels for more than 30 years.

He said they are amazing animals that are particularly interesting when it comes to sociology and adapting to challenging environments.

“They’re also simply entertaining,” he said in an interview with CTV Morning Live on Tuesday.

“They frolic. They’re industrious. They can be aggressive if need be. There’s all sorts of things that are fascinating.”

Hare explained that squirrels are important to the ecosystem as they disperse plant seeds and fungal spores, aerate the soil and are part of the geochemical cycling needed in the environment. He added they are a prey base for several predatory species and help to keep “pest species” in check.

Hare added that squirrels can also help teach us important lessons about human behaviour and physiology.

“We can study some of the extremes that squirrels have adapted to, like hibernation, and gain insights into potential physiological manipulations we can use, say, in human medicine,” he said.

Though some may see squirrels as a nuisance, Hare said there’s a way for humans to live in balance with these furry friends.

He said he’s formed a truce with his backyard squirrels by letting them live under his shed.

To keep squirrels out, he suggests maintaining your home and ensuring there are no holes in your soffit and fascia so squirrels can’t get into your attic.

• With files from CTV’s Rachel Lagace.