A tiny grey squirrel is taking the internet by storm. A video shows the little creature perched on a fence, holding what looks like a vape, and nibbling on it. At first, it’s just funny.
But experts warn there’s more to it than meets the eye.
The sweet smell that fooled the squirrel
As mentioned in a report by The Telegraph, wildlife experts say the squirrel probably wasn’t after nicotine. It was more likely attracted by the sweet, fruity scent coming from the vape. Unlike old-school cigarette butts, modern vapes are designed to smell like candy, fruit, or desserts. For a curious squirrel, it’s like stumbling upon a free snack.
Why this can be dangerous
Chewing on a vape might look cute, but it carries real risks.
Animals can come into contact with nicotine, battery chemicals, and tiny pieces of plastic – things they’d never normally eat. Exposure to these can make wildlife very sick, sometimes even fatally.
What people are saying online
The clip went viral quickly. While most people shared it just for laughs, others used it to raise awareness. Many reminded viewers to dispose of vapes and other trash carefully so animals don’t end up in harm’s way.
A simple reminder
This little squirrel’s antics are funny, but they also serve as a wake-up call. Even small human habits – leaving behind vapes, wrappers, or other litter – can seriously affect wildlife. Paying attention to how we throw things away may seem minor, but it can make a huge difference for the animals living around us. Protecting them doesn’t take much effort, just a little thoughtfulness.Disclaimer: The Times of India has not independently verified the video or the details shared in the report. The story is based on publicly available information and social media posts.Thumb image: X
