The hindlimbs of a squirrel are generally longer than the forelimbs, and they have four or five toes on each foot. Their paws on their forefeet include a thumb, although this is often poorly developed. The feet also have a soft pad on the underside.

They are predominantly herbivorous, subsisting on seeds and nuts, but many will eat insects, and even small vertebrates. As their large eyes indicate, squirrels generally have an excellent sense of vision, which is especially important for tree-dwelling species. They also have very versatile and sturdy claws for grasping and climbing.

squirrel