The Link Between Squirrels and Power Outages

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Did you know that tiny, furry creatures can cause big power problems? Squirrels, the cute acrobats of the tree world, are surprisingly responsible for many power outages across the globe. In fact, in some areas they cause more power outages than any other source, other animals, and natural disasters combined. These bushy-tailed troublemakers have a knack for getting into places they shouldn’t, often with shocking results (literally!). Squirrels have caused outages in 49 of the 50 US states — the only state missing is Hawaii, and that’s because there are no squirrels there.

The humble squirrel, often seen as a harmless woodland creature, has a surprising impact on our modern infrastructure. These small, agile animals have become a significant threat to power grids worldwide, causing blackouts that affect millions of people and result in substantial economic losses.

The Unexpected Culprits: Squirrels as Power Grid Saboteurs

Squirrels are the top troublemakers for power grids across the U.S. These furry friends have a knack for causing power outages, often by chewing through electrical wiring or getting into places they shouldn’t. In 2016 alone, utilities reported over 3,400 outages caused by squirrels. This affected nearly 200,000 customers across the country!

Squirrels often cause power outages in spring and fall when they’re extra active. Their small size and agility let them squeeze into tight spots, making transformers and substations prime targets. John C. Inglis, former NSA deputy director, even stated that squirrels are the number one threat to the U.S. electrical grid. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the biggest threats come in the smallest packages!

How A Squirrel-Induced Power Outage Happens

Squirrels cause power outages in various ways. They often chew through electrical insulation; this exposes the wires and causes short circuits. They also tunnel into substations and cause damage to equipment. Their tunneling and chewing can even trigger transformer fires.

When squirrels touch two wires simultaneously, they create a power surge. This is bad for the power station and the squirrel. The crossed wires electrocute the squirrel and cause an outage. Their small size allows them to squeeze through tiny openings, making prevention challenging.

Seasonal Patterns in Squirrel-Related Power Disruptions

Squirrels cause power outages more frequently during certain times of the year. The Squirrel Index (an incredible site!)measures these disruptions and shows their peak activity is from May to June and October to November. This coincides with squirrels’ busiest seasons for foraging and storing food. In late summer and early fall, squirrels become extra active, increasing the chances of power outages. Spring is another high-risk period because this is when squirrels nest and search for food. During these times, utility companies often see a rise in animal-related faults.

Consequences of Squirrel-Caused Blackouts

Squirrel-induced power outages have a significant impact on communities and economies. In 2015, squirrel blackouts cost Montana alone USD 11 million. And the consequences extend beyond just losing electricity. When these blackouts happen, businesses close, schools shut down, and even major institutions like universities and hospitals face operational challenges. Downed power lines may also cause injuries and even fatalities.

If you wonder just how much of an impact squirrel power outages have on infrastructure, listen to this: squirrels cut the power to the NASDAQ stock market and down not once but twice! Once in 1987 and the second time in 1994.

Squirrels causing power outages is a global phenomenon. In fact, these furry troublemakers are responsible for more blackouts worldwide than cyber-attacks.

While the fun and tongue-in-check Cyber Squirrel website is no longer updated, it’s still a fascinating collection of squirrel related power outages around the world.

Strategies For Countering Squirrel-Caused Power Outages

Utility companies are working hard to outsmart these bushy-tailed saboteurs, but the battle continues. They have developed strategies like plastic coverings on electric poles and special fencing to deter the furry troublemakers. Despite these efforts, squirrels remain a significant threat to power grids. They are responsible for about 15% of all outages and 80% of animal-related disruptions.

One effective method is installing animal deterrents like wheels, cages, or guards in areas prone to squirrel activity. The Squirrel Guard Disk is a barrier to stop squirrels from getting electrocuted in substations. Protective cages made from non-conductive materials can shield breaker and transformer bushings. Pole wraps, hard plastic sleeves screwed into poles, make it difficult for squirrels to climb. Line guards with spinning rollers prevent squirrels from crossing into dangerous areas. Some utilities use mothballs or special fencing to keep squirrels out of substations. These strategies have helped reduce squirrel-related outages by up to 75% in some areas.