Park-goers are befriending squirrels with the viral ‘wave hand’ trick — and the result stuns onlookers

In recent weeks, a fun and surprising trend has taken over TikTok, with users trying creative ways to interact with wildlife, especially squirrels. As many enjoy spending time outdoors, it is no surprise that some are finding new ways to connect with animals around them. One TikTok user, who goes by the handle @justaspam.ris, has brought a lot of attention to this adorable hack after sharing a lighthearted and curious clip depicting a squirrel and a simple hand motion.

In the video, the user is seen performing what is now being called the 'wave method,' a gentle up-and-down hand motion used to lure squirrels closer. The clip is captioned with the text, "POV: Using the wave method to lure in a squirrel," and shows her calmly waving as a squirrel appears to take interest. The video has since gained traction with more than 124K views and led others to try the same technique in parks and backyards. What started as a casual experiment has grown into a fun trend across social media, with viewers amazed at how well it seems to work. The user also shared in the caption how later "she took it (the squirrel) home and claimed it as a pet."

TikTok user who goes by @_astramusic, was next to try it after seeing another viral clip. “So I tried this at the park earlier and it actually worked,” she shared, adding to the growing number of people who have had success. The technique does not involve food or noise, just the slow, steady hand wave. Many believe squirrels see the movement as non-threatening and become curious enough to approach. While it is not guaranteed to work every time, the trend has sparked interest in low-impact ways to observe nature up close. 

Numerous internet users also shared their own experiences of the popular trend and shared different opinions in the comment section of the viral video. @xoxo.miaskyy shared, "I'll never forget when I tried this like three months ago and the squirrel ran up the tree and I actually got very sad." @rashiiiii37 talked about another useful technique, according to them, "Pro tip: Give them air kisses like you would do to a dog and they’ll come hella close." @dj.monkey1 wrote, "I thought this made them aggressive." Meanwhile, user @hearts4riyah4life shared another suggestion, "You gotta do it calmly, not fast."

While the exact reason behind the squirrels' response to this hand gesture is unclear, numerous studies have shown the effect that non-verbal actions often have on animals as well as in their communication with one another. In a report by the National Library of Medicine, studies on animals show that non-verbal actions often create effects, like building social bonds, rather than clearly showing emotions like happiness. These actions can be either signals, which help both the sender and receiver, or cues, which may only benefit the receiver.