The irresistible scent of sunflower seeds lures Eastern gray squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis) to perform high-wire acts to get at them. Apparently not handica pped by his missing tail, One takes on a feeding rig in biologist Vagn Flyger's backyard. Hanging by his feet, he begins a series of quick tugs. After three weeks of tr ial and error, the squirrel learns to hoist the can of seeds -- dexterity and p erseverance are rewarded. Squirrels thrive in urban settings thanks largely to their intelligence and adaptability. It is said that a Washington, D.C. woman spent $1,000 in one year to feed the squirrels in Lafayette Park. Many bird lovers s earch for squirrel-proof bird feeders. Manufacturers have designed many models, some of which wo rk; but why not just feed the squirrels separately instead? Copyright: National Geographic / Chris Johns