Examples of cooperative behavior:
* Sharing food: Squirrels have been observed sharing food, especially in times of scarcity. This could be between mates, family members, or even unrelated squirrels.
* Communicating danger: Squirrels use a variety of vocalizations and tail postures to warn others of danger, like predators.
* Group defense: While not as common as other cooperative behaviors, squirrels may sometimes work together to chase off predators, especially when defending their young.
Examples of competitive behavior:
* Competing for food: Squirrels are fiercely competitive for food sources, especially when resources are limited. This can lead to aggressive interactions, such as chasing and fighting.
* Territorial disputes: Squirrels defend their territories from other squirrels, which can lead to conflict and aggression.
* Mating competition: Male squirrels compete for mates, which can involve aggressive displays and fights.
Overall:
While squirrels can be competitive, they also exhibit cooperative behaviors, particularly within family groups or when facing a common threat. The specific behavior exhibited often depends on factors such as food availability, the presence of predators, and the individual's social status.