Yes, I agree that it is amazing all other mammals have vibrissae, except humans? Interesting that humans have developed other modes of figuring out our surroundings....
So interesting! I did not know how squirrels whiskers were so important. And fascinating how they are connected to it's internal system! Thanks for the research and story!
What really surprised me was to find out that humans are almost unique among mammals in not having vibrissae (except inside the nose). I mean, even WHALES have vibrissae, and all the other primates do — but not us. Thanks for commenting, Moni
Grey Squirrels live with us on our Oak-studded California hillside, sharing three deck feeders with the birds, who must wait their turn to eat. And now thanks to you, Diane, we know how the Squirrels navigate: vibrissae! Interesting! Mom-Nature is always surprising us with Her clever designs. Btw, Deck is especially alive with activity this Spring: the Titmouse Family in one eave/birdhouse is about to fledge ("fly the coop!"), and the Chickadee family on the other end is noisily doing the same. The Hummers and Acorn Woodpeckers are now back, from points South, so its Full Steam Ahead for the Summer!!
I love your thinking, your observations, your footnotes/references, and your writing. Thank you, deeply.
Thank you Katy, for the kind words and for commenting at all!
Yes, I agree that it is amazing all other mammals have vibrissae, except humans? Interesting that humans have developed other modes of figuring out our surroundings....
Humans AND Duck-billed Platypuses! I agree, so amazing, that factoid.
I love that you used the word “sproingy.” Made me smile. 😀🐿️
Thanks Dakota!
So interesting! I did not know how squirrels whiskers were so important. And fascinating how they are connected to it's internal system! Thanks for the research and story!
What really surprised me was to find out that humans are almost unique among mammals in not having vibrissae (except inside the nose). I mean, even WHALES have vibrissae, and all the other primates do — but not us. Thanks for commenting, Moni
A new word and a fun article.
Thanks Lora, for reading AND for commenting.
I had no idea!!!
Thanks for commenting, Kathy.
What fascinating information! I have more respect and appreciation for these critters that I have thought of as tree rats.
Thanks for commenting, Sallie. I too have to give a little more respect for the darling chipmunks who dig up my new plants.
That surely takes a lot of willpower to respect a critter who digs up your new plants! The cuteness does help though 😄
Once again, I have learned something new, from you, my friend!
Thanks for reading (and for commenting!) Patty.
“And when we’re squirrelly” gawd I love your writing Diane! 🙏🏼
Thank you. High praise, coming from writer Linda!
Grey Squirrels live with us on our Oak-studded California hillside, sharing three deck feeders with the birds, who must wait their turn to eat. And now thanks to you, Diane, we know how the Squirrels navigate: vibrissae! Interesting! Mom-Nature is always surprising us with Her clever designs. Btw, Deck is especially alive with activity this Spring: the Titmouse Family in one eave/birdhouse is about to fledge ("fly the coop!"), and the Chickadee family on the other end is noisily doing the same. The Hummers and Acorn Woodpeckers are now back, from points South, so its Full Steam Ahead for the Summer!!
Susan, your deck and your oaky hillside sound delightful. And you have both titmice and chickadees nesting on your own nest! Wonderful.
So interesting and well described!
Thank you Jane, for the compliment and for commenting!