Big FAT Squirrels in Zion Need Your Help Dieting

Are You the Reason These Rock Squirrels Waddle? 

Zion National Park features soaring cliffs, deep canyons, and fat squirrels. The last one isn’t the first thing you think of, but it is true. The internet has many videos and pictures of people encountering chubby varmints in the park in Southern Utah. 

It became such a problem that officials there put out a fat squirrel post a couple years ago much like Katmai National Park in Alaska does with their fat bear week. This one didn’t celebrate the weight gain but was intended to educate visitors to avoid feeding these friendly dudes. 

Maybe We Should Do More Than Just Not Feed Them 

Now that you are aware that feeding the rock squirrels, especially the ones that hang around Riverside Walk in the park that have become overly rotund, is bad, you can spread the word. Making others aware will help solve the problem. 

Still, there might be more we can do. I think a little fat shaming might be in order. I think the way the park posted photos of Dozer, Harriet and Minnie (an obvious dig on this last one) is a good start. Perhaps some finger pointing by visitors would help. 

Read More: Popular Video Device is Banned in Zion National Park

I also think an exercise routine with a short class on fatty foods would be a good thing for these squirrels. Even if rangers aren’t able to get through to the little nut eaters, it would surely become an attraction for tourists. 

Just a few ideas to get the rock squirrels in Zion back on a healthy path. I’ve already ordered a dozen yoga pants in extra extra small sizes in an effort to help.