Squirrels are ‘splooting’ to cope with extreme California heat. Here’s what that means

The intense heat wave hitting the West Coast has affected more than just the human residents.

California squirrels have been seen “splooting”, lying splayed out on their bellies, as a way to cope with the extreme weather conditions.

The practice, also called heat dumping, allows the tiny creatures to “dissipate body heat into the environment,” according to The Science Times. It’s not just for squirrels though. Many mammals, including dogs and bears, sploot, according to The Weather Channel.

While humans can escape to air conditioned houses during a heat wave, splooting is one of the few ways animals can relieve themselves of the unforgiving heat.

The goal is to have as much of their bodies touching the ground as possible, according to SF Gate. This helps them “dump heat from their bodies into the environment.”

For squirrels, splooting allows them too cool off quickly because “their stomach area has little insulation,” The Weather Channel said.

Alison Hermance, a worker for WildCare in San Rafael, said her animal hospital had “been receiving lots of calls about hot animals, including concerns about squirrels ‘spread out flat,’” according to Newsweek.

But experts say the odd sight is nothing to be concerned about.

“If you see a squirrel lying down like this, don’t worry; it’s just fine,” the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation tweeted in August along with a photo of a squirrel lying on its belly.

Overall, authorities don’t believe humans have to do anything if they see a squirrel splooting, according to The Science Times. If they aren’t hurt, they’re probably just trying to relax.

Experts say there are ways humans can help squirrels cool down during a heat wave.

Water is crucial for the small animals, as “squirrels actually drink a lot of water, and they need even more waterduring warm weather,” according to Kent Nutrition Group.

Ken Nutrition Group recommends residents buy a squirrel feeder that comes with attachments for fresh water.

This story was originally published September 12, 2022 at 12:29 PM with the headline "Squirrels are ‘splooting’ to cope with extreme California heat. Here’s what that means."