Why Are There So Many Squirrels -- Alive and Dead -- Everywhere?

It feels like driving in an urban wildlife video game. Squirrels, squirrels everywhere -- flying off of sidewalks, darting into traffic -- or lying dead near the curb. Everyone's talking about it: Why the heck are there so many squirrels out there this year?

Prompted by queries on social media, particularly on Facebook, the Farmer's Almanac addressed the phenomenon.

"While folklore tells us that squirrels gathering nuts early is one of the 20 signs of a hard winter, there appears to be a bit more going on," reports the Almanac.

Apparently, we've had a "mast" year for acorns and other nuts -- meaning a bumper crop -- and that has led to a population explosion of squirrels, all racing to grab and store this abundance of food. Like a sale on prime rib at Market Basket, it's causing a frenzy of activity that is likely to continue through the fall, experts say.

"In case you’re living in a bubble, the squirrel apocalypse of 2018 is upon us," writes Foster's Daily Democrat.

Comparing their behavior to that of a kamikaze pilot, Foster's reports that last year was a "banner year for nuts," and that translates into more food for squirrels.

"Gray squirrels are best described as crepuscular (active at dawn and dusk) in spring, summer, and fall but are active only during midday in winter," according to the Massachusetts Department of Fisheries and Wildlife. "They may be especially active in fall when nuts are abundant. They are not territorial, but may defend the immediate area around a nest site. Red squirrels are active during the day but may rest during periods of intense midday heat."

When a squirrel runs onto the road in front of you, don't slam on your brakes and don't swerve, experts tell the Farmer's Almanac. Driving in a straight line is best for all involved.

So slow down, and don't let these nut gatherers jar your sensibilities. They're just shopping in bulk.

Photo via mass.gov