Squirrel Census
Q: In 2012 what census was done at Atlanta’s Inman Park?
A: Squirrel (Eastern Gray)
The Atlanta 2012 Squirrel Census: A Unique Urban Wildlife Study
In 2012, Atlanta became the stage for an unusual yet fascinating scientific endeavour: the Atlanta Squirrel Census. This citizen science project combined ecology, data collection, and storytelling to explore the lives of one of the city's most ubiquitous yet overlooked residents—the eastern gray squirrel.
What Was the Squirrel Census?
The Squirrel Census was a comprehensive survey aimed at counting squirrels in a specific urban area while gathering insights about their behaviours and habitats. Conducted in Atlanta's Inman Park, the project brought together volunteers from diverse backgrounds, including scientists, artists, and curious locals. Armed with clipboards, binoculars, and a keen sense of observation, the participants meticulously documented the squirrels they encountered.
Why Count Squirrels?
Squirrels might seem like an ordinary part of the urban ecosystem, but studying them offers valuable insights into the health of green spaces and the broader urban environment. Squirrels are an excellent indicator species, meaning their population trends can reflect changes in local biodiversity, habitat quality, and food availability.
The census also aimed to inspire curiosity and appreciation for urban wildlife. By engaging the public in a hands-on scientific activity, it fostered a deeper connection between the community and the natural world around them.
Key Findings and Legacy
The 2012 Squirrel Census was not just about numbers; it was about storytelling. The team created beautifully illustrated reports that combined maps, data visualizations, and narratives, painting a vivid picture of squirrel life in Inman Park. They noted details such as squirrel density, activity patterns, and interactions with their environment.
This innovative approach captured the imagination of people far beyond Atlanta, sparking discussions about urban ecology and the importance of observing nature in our daily lives. The project has since inspired similar initiatives in other cities, turning the humble squirrel into a symbol of citizen science and environmental stewardship.
A Lasting Impact
The Atlanta 2012 Squirrel Census showed how science can be fun, collaborative, and deeply meaningful. It reminded us that even the most common creatures have stories worth exploring—and that paying attention to our urban wildlife enriches our understanding of the world around us. Whether you're a scientist, an artist, or simply a curious city dweller, there's always more to discover in your backyard.
So next time you see a squirrel darting up a tree or burying an acorn, take a moment to appreciate its role in the urban tapestry. Who knows? You might be inspired to start your own census!