1. Squirrels are active throughout the year and do not hibernate. They are diurnal animals. The start time of daily activity is related to the sunrise time, but the end time of activity has no obvious correlation with sunset time.

2. The daily activity rhythm of squirrels is affected by climate conditions. Strong winds, heavy rains, severe cold and heat will reduce the activity time of squirrels. The trade-off between foraging needs and conserving energy by remaining in the nest affects squirrel activity patterns during the winter.

3. The diurnal activity rhythm is unimodal in winter, and they will remain inactive in the nest for several days under severe cold weather conditions. In summer, there is an activity peak in the morning and afternoon. The daily activity pattern in spring and autumn is between winter and summer.

Extended information:

Life habits

Squirrels spend 70% to 80% of their time foraging, and tend to forage and store food in coniferous forests. Food. In autumn, squirrels scatter and store nuts on the ground and fungi on branches.

Squirrels live in nests and can also use tree holes and bird nests. Each individual usually occupies 2 to 3 nests at the same time. Because fir branches and leaves are denser than pine trees, squirrels usually choose to nest in fir trees in artificial forests.

The reproductive status of squirrels is closely related to food access. They can give birth twice a year, mating in February and March and July and August respectively, and the gestation period is about 38 to 39 days. But if food access is insufficient, spring mating can be delayed or eliminated.