1.
squirrel
A small rodent with a bushy tail, known for climbing trees and storing nuts.
栗鼠が木の実を集めている。
A squirrel is gathering nuts.
公園で栗鼠を見かけた。
I spotted a squirrel in the park.
栗鼠は頬袋に餌を詰め込む。
Squirrels stuff food into their cheek pouches.
栗鼠 refers to squirrels. The kanji literally means "chestnut mouse."
Alternative writing: リス (katakana, very common)
Types in Japan:
- ニホンリス (Japanese squirrel)
- エゾリス (Hokkaido squirrel)
- タイワンリス (Taiwanese squirrel - introduced species)
- シマリス (chipmunk)
Common expressions:
- 栗鼠のように頬を膨らませる (to puff out one's cheeks like a squirrel)
- 回し車 (hamster/squirrel wheel)
Counter: 匹
Note:
Squirrels are popular as cute animals in Japan and are kept as pets (especially シマリス/chipmunks). The introduced Taiwanese squirrel has become an invasive species in some areas like Kamakura.