The Squirrel Project: Problem Solving Abilities of Squirrels

The goal of this project is to provide an informative and humorous look at how squirrels solve increasingly difficult obstacles in my backyard. The Squirrel Project was inspired by a BBC television show entitled "Daylight Robbery" and its more originally titled sequel "Daylight Robbery II” - Comments Welcome!!!

Thursday, April 21, 2005

Standard Stand



Here is an illustration of a standard stand.
From bottom to top:
  • PVC Pole
  • Motion Sensor (not attached to the metal screw collar)
  • Speed Rail attachment (not markedby arrow)
  • Poly Carb Baffle
  • Pine Block
  • Super Food (Mentioned in my books)

Red Birds


I have proven (as seen in my 2nd book) that squirrels intelligently use birds as “indicators” for food sources. I have placed small deflated red balloons (do not use yellow see post “who are they?”) to attract these rare red birds I believe they are called “red birds”

Note: They also recognize the shapes of bird feeders – unfortunately not cars

Night Vision



Simple ATN PS14-XR5 Night Vision Monocular attached to a motion detector and a Kodak throw away 33mm camera with a film advance and shutter trigger I build from a remote control car.

A Long Way for a Short Distance


For this squirrel to complete the obstacle it had to correctly press several levers in order for the wood frame to drop then jump 12 feet.

S:401935



My lab assistant insists on naming my subjects. 401935 is named Lala.