Chapter
Squirrels and Mast Trees in the US Forests
27:22 - 34:51 (07:28)
The population density of squirrels is positively correlated with the presence of mast trees such as chestnut, beech, and oak, which produce nuts that squirrels and other animals feed on. The endangered Carolina Northern Flying Squirrel can benefit from the new land bridges built in overpasses and freeway crossings.
Clips
The speaker reminisces about a time when they had a flying squirrel as a pet and how they later realized that the squirrel was eaten by their cat while they were out of town.
27:22 - 28:44 (01:22)
Summary
The speaker reminisces about a time when they had a flying squirrel as a pet and how they later realized that the squirrel was eaten by their cat while they were out of town.
ChapterSquirrels and Mast Trees in the US Forests
EpisodeSquirrels, Ahoy!
PodcastStuff You Should Know
The flying squirrel has membranes between its front and hind legs which it can use to steer while airborne and move up to 150 feet in a purposeful direction, making it the closest thing to human flight.
28:44 - 30:16 (01:31)
Summary
The flying squirrel has membranes between its front and hind legs which it can use to steer while airborne and move up to 150 feet in a purposeful direction, making it the closest thing to human flight.
ChapterSquirrels and Mast Trees in the US Forests
EpisodeSquirrels, Ahoy!
PodcastStuff You Should Know
Studies have shown that land bridges over freeways and overpasses are helping Carolina Northern Flying Squirrels have a better chance at survival and thriving, as they can forage and build on the other side.
30:16 - 32:02 (01:45)
Summary
Studies have shown that land bridges over freeways and overpasses are helping Carolina Northern Flying Squirrels have a better chance at survival and thriving, as they can forage and build on the other side. The decline of chestnut trees, which squirrels used to travel from Maine to Georgia without touching the ground, has endangered the species.
ChapterSquirrels and Mast Trees in the US Forests
EpisodeSquirrels, Ahoy!
PodcastStuff You Should Know
Mast producing trees, such as chestnut, beech, and oak, have a positive correlation with the number and population density of squirrels in an area, as they provide a food source for them.
32:02 - 34:51 (02:49)
Summary
Mast producing trees, such as chestnut, beech, and oak, have a positive correlation with the number and population density of squirrels in an area, as they provide a food source for them. Additionally, squirrels are adapted to eat nuts due to their two sets of constantly growing incisors.