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How do a tree squirrel’s claws help it climb trees?

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Do squirrels forget where they hide their food? — squirrel Overview of food-burying behaviour in squirrels.

Tree squirrels are highly adapted for an arboreal lifestyle, and their claws play a critical role in their ability to navigate vertical surfaces and slim branches. These claws are large, strong, curved, and very sharp, which allows the squirrel to securely grip and traverse tree trunks and branches.1

In addition to their claws, tree squirrels possess flexible ankle joints that can be rotated. This anatomical feature enables them to descend trees headfirst, as they can splay their hind feet flat against the bark to maintain stability while climbing. When moving upward, squirrels typically use an alternate gait, effectively hopping up the tree using their forelegs and hind legs. These specialized physical traits ensure that the squirrel can maintain a firm anchor while moving through its environment.123