What Is the Lifespan of Squirrels?

Wild squirrels can be found in diverse environments, from forests to urban areas. They inhabit every continent except Antarctica and Australia. The African pygmy squirrel from Cameroon holds the title of the smallest squirrel, measuring just 2.3 inches (6 centimeters) in length.

On the other end of the spectrum, the largest squirrel is the Indian or Malabar giant squirrel, reaching lengths of up to 3.3 feet (1 meter). Additionally, some flying squirrels exhibit a unique pink glow under UV light. Interestingly, chipmunks are classified as small, striped squirrels.

With numerous squirrel species worldwide, their life expectancy varies due to multiple factors. But what is the average lifespan of squirrels?

What Is the Lifespan of Squirrels in the Wild?

In North America, Eastern gray squirrels, tree squirrels, and red squirrels are commonly spotted, all featuring white underbellies and fluffy tails. But how long do these familiar creatures typically live?

Do you notice a fresh batch of nimble seed snatchers each year, or are you observing the same seasoned squirrels aging gracefully and sharing stories of their seed-stealing adventures with their offspring?

Gray squirrels typically live around six years, so it's probable that you're encountering many of the same squirrels in your yard annually. Some gray squirrels can even survive up to 12 years in the wild.

Red squirrels have an average lifespan of five years, with some living up to 10 years. Male red squirrels generally outlive females, and only around 20 percent of juveniles survive to adulthood.

Fox squirrels typically live between eight to 18 years in the wild. Females average around 13 years, while males live about eight years. Many fox squirrels don’t reach maturity due to predators like hawks and owls, and young squirrels may fall prey to small snakes.

Do Wild Squirrels Outlive Pet Squirrels?

Wild squirrels can survive up to 18 years, influenced by species, habitat, and various other factors. In North America, Eastern gray squirrels, tree squirrels, and red squirrels are commonly observed, all sporting white underbellies and fluffy tails but differing slightly in average lifespans. These squirrels are categorized into three main groups: tree squirrels, ground squirrels, and flying squirrels.

As members of the rodent family, squirrels follow a general trend among mammals: larger species tend to have longer average lifespans.

What about squirrels kept as pets? Do they live longer than their wild counterparts? Occasionally. Red squirrels, for instance, can survive up to eight years in captivity, whereas they typically live around five years in the wild.

The lifespan of gray squirrels in captivity continues to rise. They can thrive for as long as 20 years as pets, a significant increase compared to their six-year average in the wild.

Fox squirrels also enjoy extended lifespans in captivity, where they can live up to 18 years, nearly doubling their average lifespan in the wild.

While not everyone is fond of squirrels, their omnipresence and voracious appetites are undeniable. The next time you spot a squirrel raiding your garden or feasting on your birdseed, keep in mind that the little critter is simply engaging in typical squirrel behavior.