Figuring out why squirrels act like they do can be a fun challenge. Sometimes they act loving and playful with each other but other times they are aggressive and chase other squirrels away. So what gives with these critters? Are squirrels territorial or do they just like some squirrels more than others? I did a little research and was surprised by all of the information that I found. Here is what I learned:
The common tree squirrels (Grey and Fox) are not territorial. The American Red and California Ground squirrels are extremely territorial. Flying squirrels will exhibit territorial behavior if there is pressure for nesting locations. The degree of territorial defense also varies based upon the sex of the squirrel and the presence of babies.
If we look at the territorial behavior for some of these guys in detail then how they act starts making sense.