Southern California is experiencing high temperatures, prompting local squirrels to adopt a behavior known as 'splooting.' Residents of Los Angeles have shared images on social media of squirrels lying flat on railings, patios, and shaded areas in an effort to cool down. This behavior, which involves flattening their bellies against cooler surfaces, is thought to help animals regulate their body temperature. Wildlife experts explain that mammals have less fur on their stomachs, which allows them to transfer heat more effectively to cooler ground or surfaces. The phenomenon has gained popularity online, with one post on a Los Angeles subreddit receiving over 7,000 upvotes. The heatwave has led to triple-digit temperatures in areas such as Downtown Los Angeles, Long Beach, and Burbank, with heat advisories issued by the National Weather Service extending through Thursday.
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Squirrels in Southern California Exhibit 'Splooting' Behavior During Heatwave
During a heatwave in Southern California, squirrels are exhibiting a behavior known as 'splooting' to cool down. Residents have been sharing images of the squirrels lying flat on surfaces, which helps them regulate their body temperature. The region is experiencing triple-digit temperatures, prompting heat advisories from the National Weather Service.
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‘Splooting’ squirrels shoot to viral fame as heatwave cooks LA
Squirrels in Southern California Exhibit 'Splooting' Behavior During Heatwave