Although they’re smaller in size, squir- rels can still bite and scratch. Aer all, their teeth need to be strong enough to bite through tree nuts, so it’s easy for them to do damage to a finger or two. Despite their small size, they should still be treated with the same caution as larger tree-dwelling creatures. PPE Recommendations While raccoon and squirrel bites can’t be fully prevented or ruled out from the field, PPE serves as an important tool providing an extra layer of protection.
Thierbach recommends the following:
• Wearing heavy-duty, puncture- resistant gloves to help protect against bites and scratches; • Using eye and face protection to shield against claws, debris, and even urine; and • Wearing long sleeves and protective outerwear to reduce the amount of exposed skin. In addition to PPE, Thierbach advises arborists to stay aware of their sur- roundings and avoid direct interaction with any wildlife as much as possible.
Small but aggressive, squirrels will defend nearby nests at height. Never assume their size means low risk.
bors, though, there is no waiting out tree squirrels until denning or nesting season is over. These are year-round habitants that can pop up in a variety of tree species and are especially fond of oak-hickory forests.
ously. These aren’t just cute and fuzzy animals — raccoons can carry danger- ous diseases such as rabies, requiring prompt medical care.
Squirrels
Not surprisingly, climbers also run into tree squirrels quite oen at height, and according to Thierbach, they can be “devious little rats.” They take defensive measures to the next lev- el — to the point where they may almost seem spiteful. “Squirrels aren’t as nice as ev- erybody thinks they are,” she chuckled. “They’ll get out on a branch above and purposeful- ly urinate on you.” as ev- ,” she ut on a oseful- Like raccoons, tree squirrel mothers are highly protective of their nests and may attack if they feel there is a threat. Dif- ferent from their masked neigh- quirrel otective attack if eat. Dif- d neigh- mbers rrels and ch, tle ve v- re em
To protect yourself while climbing, use eye and face protection to shield against claws, debris, and even urine.
ArborTIMES ™ Spring 2026 | 27
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