Squirrel attacking pedestrians in Santa Cruz removed from tree with babies

People walking near the intersection of Cedar and Maple streets in downtown Santa Cruz can now walk with a bit more ease.

The squirrel that has been attacking people walking by has been removed.

The squirrel known to many as Emily had three babies she was protecting in the tree, which is why it had become so protective.

Emily was raised by a woman living on Maple Street and had escaped from the home a few months ago, making a new home in the tree.

Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter said since the squirrel was not afraid of humans, that added to its aggression.

Native Animal Rescue and the Santa Cruz Fire Department assisted with the removal of Emily and her babies.

Emily will be taken to the rescue facility where she can raise her babies until they are old enough to be released into the wild.