See the Winter Forecast for Snow & Cold in Illinois by Squirrels

Sure, you could base your expectations for the upcoming winter in Illinois on forecasts by actual meteorologists, but where's the fun in that? Many believe that the most accurate idea for how cold and snowy it will be in Illinois comes from squirrels and I agree.

I say this with a little bit of trepidation since my wife is one of those meteorologists, but even she knows that what squirrels do can give you an early indication of what the upcoming winter in Illinois might be like.

How do squirrels forecast what Illinois winters will be like?

Here's what to watch for in nature to give you an idea of how severe (or not) an Illinois winter will be. Squirrels are building nests right now during the Fall months before winter weather hits. Here's how you can tell what they think will happen as far as snow and cold goes:

• If a squirrel builds a nest high up in a tree, they're anticipating a cold winter with lots of snow
• If a squirrel builds a nest lower in trees than normal, the upcoming winter will be mild

I believe that the animals are given a sixth sense to understand what type of winter is coming so they can prepare. They're not developed enough for their smartphones to get the latest weather updates yet. (*sarcasm*)

Doubt the squirrels if you must, but I will be watching how high our neighborhood nut gatherers will be nesting. They are a great measure for winter weather.