Chapter 10: Talking to Each Other

You have probably heard us talking to each other. I'm quite talkative, as you might have noticed. I make lots of little barking sounds. They sound like a lot like kuk, kuk and quaa quaa. I might be warning other squirrels to stay away from a nest, especially if there are babies inside. Or I might see a predator — a hawk, for example. Or a bunch of human teenagers. Argh! I bark for all those reasons.

Babies also call to their mothers, if they're hungry or feel like they're in danger. We also call if we're trying to find a mate. And no, I'm not going to ask you your sign. (I’m a Taurus, in case you were wondering.)

I use other ways to communicate as well. If I'm feeling aggressive or angry, you might see me flicking my tail back and forth very fast. That's a signal that I'm not a happy camper and it’s best to stay away. I also stomp my feet to make the point even stronger. You could call it Skippy’s Bad Mood Dance.