What Sounds Do Squirrels Make and what do they mean?
Squirrels make different sounds in different situations. But why do they make these sounds?
Squirrels use sound to protect themselves and their territories. Also when want to mate.
Let’s start with:
What Sounds Do Squirrels Make?
Squirrels’ calls are made up of screeches, rattles, barks, and snorts. The Kuk, muk-muk, and quaa sound are used to show interest in mating.
In north america, squirrels are divided into three categories – tree squirrels, flying squirrels, and the ground squirrels. Squirrels live in a group and very vocal even when they are chasing each other.
Different Sounds with Meaning
Here is a table of different sounds squirrels can make and their meanings.
| Sound Type | Meaning |
| Rattles | Defending territory |
| Screeching | Defending territory |
| Barking | Alarm call |
| Buzz | Alarm call |
| Kuk-kuk-kuk | Warning sound |
| Quaa | Warning sound |
| Seet | Terrestrial predator |
| Seet-bark | Aerial predator |
| Muk-muk | Made by young squirrels or when mating |
| High-pitched chirp | Young calling for mother |
| Crying | Young squirrels |
Squirrels are very aware of their territory and make rattles and screeching sounds when some other squirrels cross them, it is the main reason they chase each other.
If there is a predator nearby, then squirrels make sounds like seet and seet-bark to let others know and hide from the predator.
The next warning sound made by the squirrel sounds like ‘kuk’. The ‘kuk’ is then followed by a sound of ‘quaa.’ This is more of an extended version of the ‘quaa’ sound and is of lower intensity. These types of sounds are also made by eastern gray squirrels.
What noise do squirrels make at night?
Flying squirrels are nocturnal, come out at night. They tend to be more silent and make less noise. They most notably produce high-pitched chirping sounds when communicating with each other and are also capable of making ultrasonic sounds.
What Sounds do Baby Squirrels Make?
Baby squirrels make different sounds at different age. At three days old, a baby squirrel can make a subtle squeak sound. At three weeks, it can growl out to its mother when hungry. At four weeks old they can produce short screams.
Sounds that Scare Squirrels
Squirrels are very frightened of owls, crows and other predators. Some even says high pitched sounds are capable of deter squirrels.
Do Squirrels Make Noise When Mating?
The male squirrel emits a soft ‘muk muk’ sound as he chases after the female in estrus. This sound is meant to reassure the female that he is not a threat to her.
Female squirrels when ready to mate, produce the ‘kuks’ and ‘Quaas sounds. They are described as a moan that signals she is ready for copulation. These sounds are made before and even after mating.