Californian Squirrels Use Old Snake Skins To Mask Their Scent From Predators

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This is a video of ground squirrels at Oceanside Harbor, California, USA – 6/07.

From ScienceDaily:

California ground squirrels and rock squirrels chew up rattlesnake skin and smear it on their fur to mask their scent from predators, according to a new study by researchers at UC Davis.

Barbara Clucas, a graduate student in animal behavior at UC Davis, observed ground squirrels (Spermophilus beecheyi) and rock squirrels (Spermophilus variegates) applying snake scent to themselves by picking up pieces of shed snakeskin, chewing it and then licking their fur.

Douglas’ squirrels: here.

Highly Endangered Round Island Boa Captive Population Doubles at Durrell: here.