From Pets to Pests to Planters, Squirrels’ Storied History in Ohio

Squirrels, as it turns out, are more than just cute backyard visitors or mischievous garden invaders; they’re indispensable to our local ecosystems, and have survived a precarious relationship with humans over the past centuries.

During the 18th century, squirrels were the sought-after, beloved companions of many Americans. Fast forward a hundred years, and squirrels in Ohio were so numerous that they had a bounty on their heads. From pets to pests to planters, squirrels have had a unique relationship with humans. Today, beyond serving as a bizarre bragging right for college campuses, they continue to be a crucial part of our ecosystems as seed sowers in wild and urban areas alike.

This article was originally published on www.midstory.org. Read the full story here.