There are few woodland creatures as lively as squirrels. In this picture, a cheerful collection of little squirrels sits and crouches against a light background. Some hold food in their paws while others look ready to scurry away. Their bushy tails are almost as striking as their faces.
The challenge is to count all the squirrels correctly. It sounds easy until their tails begin to overlap the spaces between neighbors. You may find yourself following the curve of a tail instead of moving to the next animal, or counting a squirrel twice because its body stretches into another part of the picture.
Take a closer look
The simplest method is to count heads, not tails. Begin with the upper row and move steadily from left to right. Count the next row the same way, continuing until you reach the bottom. Then count the rows themselves and check that your total makes sense.
This kind of playful picture challenge is a reminder that careful observation is often more reliable than a quick glance. You do not need to be especially good at mathematics. You only need a clear system and a little patience.
The answer
The answer is 16 squirrels. There are four squirrels in each of four rows, so the total is 4 + 4 + 4 + 4 = 16. If you counted bushy tails instead of heads, it may have taken you a little longer.
What did you think when you first saw this picture? Share your thoughts with friends and family.
