Why were there so many squirrles in paintings?

Squirrels often appeared in paintings due to their lively and dynamic nature, which added a sense of playfulness and movement to artworks. Additionally, they were symbols of resourcefulness and agility, resonating with themes of nature and the changing seasons. Artists also used squirrels as a way to explore the relationship between humans and wildlife, making them a popular subject in both still lifes and landscapes. Their charming characteristics made them appealing to viewers, further contributing to their prevalence in art.