Squirrel Nests

[The Grebe]

Does anyone know if squirrels live in those leaf nests throughout the winter, or are they just stop overs, or temporary shelters? Seems like they could find something a little warmer and out of the elements, like a hollow tree, or a barn, or something?

Anyone know if there was ever a study on this? Seems like they would need a small furnace in there to keep it warm!

[chris63]

They sleep a lot more in the winter months. They tend to "beef" up their nests in October and November with extra leaves/sticks for added insulation.They breed in December/January and sometimes share nests to conserve heat.I've also heard they pack up their station wagons and head south for the winter.(Although I've found no facts to substantiate this rumor.)c63

[The Grebe]

[paul pachowicz]

Never gave it much thought how they live/survive the winter as long as it isn't in the rafters of my house. You could always invite in to yours, I guess.

[bigbucks]

I've also been told that up to as much as like 70% of the squirrels can die each winter, which seems crazy when you see how many there can be at times.