Squirrels make noise to communicate with other squirrels and animals. The most common noise squirrels will make is a barking sound, which they use to warn each other of danger or threats in their territory.

What does it mean if a squirrel barks?

Noisy Alarm Calls

Squirrels are on the lookout for threats from above and below. When they spot a predator like a cat or a hawk, they'll make a series of barking alarm calls.

Why do squirrels make a calling noise?

Although their calls sometimes sound like they're scolding us — or the cat — most of them are alarm signals given both to warn off a predator and to warn other squirrels of danger.