ANSWERS: 1
  • Squirrels are small, fur-covered rodents that live off of nuts and berries. Some hair loss in squirrels is natural, but squirrels can also lose hair due to disease and infection.

    Causes

    Squirrels lose hair due to molting, skin infections such as mange, or fungal diseases.

    Molting

    Molting is the regular shedding of the fur which occurs at least once annually. Most squirrels molt twice per year. Squirrels need thicker fur in the winter to stay warm, and in the summer they need thinner fur to keep cool. Large patches of fur may be missing from the squirrel's hide if it is molting.

    The Process

    Molting is triggered by secretions of the thyroid and pituitary glands. The direction of fur molting will change based on season.

    Mange

    Mange can cause loss of hair and dry, thick, darkened skin. Mange is caused by mites which bite the animal and irritate the skin follicle.

    Other Causes

    Fungal diseases cause the hair to have short stubble, instead of falling out completely. Some squirrels have a genetic deficiency in which its hair follicles are barren or non-functioning, causing a harmless bald patch.

    Source:

    Purdue University: Hairless Squirrels?

    Encyclopedia.com: Molting

    Northumberland Wildlife Trust: Focus On Red Squirrels

    More Information:

    jstor.org: Molt Patterns in the Barrow Ground Squirrel

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