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Lighten-Up
08-07-2021, 11:25 AM
Hello everyone,

This is a rather simple question for those who relate personally to their squirrel friends. And take cues off their non-vocal behaviors.

What does it mean when a squirrel puts one ear back, crinkled? Has anyone seen this? The context that this ear folding back is pleasant. So I don't think this is at all like a dog putting their ears back, which can mean aggression.

My little friend CJ, male-4.5 months old, if I am sitting with him, or giving him a sweet head rub, will soften his eyes, and then the top of one ear will fold back and then he will drop that whole ear. The other ear stays up straight and tall with no crinkle or bend in it. This behavior is so noticeable, that it speaks volumes of presence and so I have just wanted to make sure I am understanding what he is communicating by doing this. Does anyone know?

I take this as a signal of happiness or endearment, but I wanted the thoughts of others who may have seen this behavior. I am just infinitely curious about squirrels and their behaviors.

Is there a "Curiousity Corner" place for posting questions about squirrel behavior? Or is this an okay to post these curiosities?
Thanks!!
:Love_Icon

Rock Monkey
08-07-2021, 12:14 PM
I haven't seen this behavior much but when I did see Helen fold down both ears after release I construed it as anxiety which was feeding back on my anxiety and pessimistic thoughts about her at that time. That was the last time she presented herself to me, now she stays concealed when I visit but I think that has a lot to do with the presence of her babies. I don't know.

I suppose this behavior could have different meanings in different context for different squirrels. It sounds different in what you describe.