Be careful around the Squirrels on Campus

Squirrels usually mind their own business, gathering nuts and generally keeping a safe distance from humans. However, squirrels that have been fed by humans may "charge" you in hopes of getting a bit of food.

The UL Lafayette Campus has had at least two squirrel bites on record over the past year. One when a student was bit on a finger after attempting to feed a squirrel and another when a student was bit on the finger while trying to photograph the squirrel.

If threatened, squirrels will show signs of aggression. But they would have to be pretty uncomfortable to attack a human.

Defensive posture of the squirrel: A characteristic trait of several types of squirrels, especially ground squirrels, is their tendency to rise on their hind legs and curl their paws flat against their chests when they sense any kind of danger. They will then survey their surrounding territories. If they feel that they are in danger, they will often send the warning call (a loud screeching sound) to alert other squirrels. Then there is a mad rush to the burrow. Please do not go near them if you witness this.

To stay safe, don't attempt to feed a squirrel by hand, and be aware that if a squirrel begins flicking its tail, it's a warning to keep away.

If you are scratched/bitten by a squirrel, students should report directly to the Student Health Services Center to have the wound looked at and tended immediately. Faculty, staff, visitors and contractors should go to the nearest health care facility to have the wound looked at and tended immediately. All incidents should be reported to the UL Lafayette Police Department (482-6447) or the Environmental, Health & Safety Office (482-1840) so a report can be made and the squirrel can be trapped and relocated.