ABSTRACT
On numerous occasions the author has trapped squirrels in the author's roof and attic. The first time the authors had squirrels in their house they called an exterminator. The noise was loud and persistent in the early morning and the author decided to put a trap on an outside ledge near the opening under the roof drain. Different squirrels show different reaction patterns upon discovering they are trapped. It appears that variations in patterns of response characterize different squirrels, sometimes a matter of life and death. We might fancy innate differences in temperament, sensibility, or ways of organizing experience. It seemed as if some squirrels almost sensed waiting was necessary, that they lacked the key to solve the problem they were up against. Animal studies show the importance of environmental contribution as well as innate endowment and learning. In one study, rats were placed in environments that were too easy, too hard, and challenging enough.
