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SALT LAKE CITY — A haiku: You eat my chook seed / Even although it is not for you / But I assume you are cute.
Where is Dug from “Up” if you want him? It’s formally OK to cease mid-sentence with a declaration of “squirrel!” — and this time, it may be executed within the identify of science.
Squirrel Fest is occurring on the Natural History Museum of Utah from Dec. 2-10, and museum researchers want Utah’s assist to doc the place a selected species of squirrels are across the state.
Ellen Eiriksson, the citizen science supervisor on the Natural History Museum of Utah, stated monitoring the squirrels across the state is useful as a result of a species of tree squirrel — japanese fox squirrel — has a rising inhabitants in Utah, when it didn’t beforehand exist right here. Scientists wish to observe its development to see what results the brand new species has on the ecosystems.
Eiriksson stated Utah doesn’t have a typical ecosystem for fox squirrels to decide on, but one was noticed by the Jordan River in 2011 and confirmed by the state. Ever since then, the sightings have skyrocketed, with many sightings in Salt Lake City.
“It’s a novel alternative to have the ability to observe a nonnative species because it’s actively changing into established in a brand new ecosystem,” Eiriksson stated.
There are two species of squirrel native to Utah: the American pink squirrel and the rock squirrel. Researchers are looking for details about the fox squirrel. The variations between species might be realized on the museum’s website, however if you cannot inform the distinction, that is OK — submit your commentary anyway!
To assist the museum, researchers ask that the general public spend as quick as two minutes and as much as quarter-hour in search of squirrels. Then, document observations — even observations that no squirrels had been seen — on this form. Whether the squirrels are seen grabbing avenue meals within the metropolis, chook seed within the yard or nuts on a mountaineering path, the museum desires all of it.
“We couldn’t do that with out the assistance of the general public, and so we’re extremely grateful to individuals who take a minute or two and inform us about squirrels they do or do not see in their very own neighborhoods. It actually makes a big effect to our analysis, which is thrilling,” Eiriksson stated.
The survey is open year-round, however the museum hosts Squirrel Fest in December to carry consciousness to the general public that their assist is required.
Squirrel Fest is on its fourth yr, and Eiriksson stated it’s hosted in December as a result of squirrels are simpler to see in bushes when the leaves are gone.
The Natural History Museum’s website additionally options the way to establish a fox squirrel, and when you relate to the haiku firstly, the way to shoo them away so that they cease consuming from chook feeders and bugging pets.
To study extra about Squirrel Fest, try event information here.
