What Animal Is in the Tree in Christmas Vacation?

By Anna Duncan

During the iconic Christmas movie, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, there is a scene where the Griswold family is trying to pick out the perfect Christmas tree. As Clark Griswold (played by Chevy Chase) is sawing down a tree, he suddenly falls off of his ladder and onto the ground. When he looks up at the tree, he sees something moving in its branches – but what animal is it?

The Animal in the Tree

The animal in the tree during this scene is a squirrel. The squirrel had been living in the tree and was likely startled by Clark’s sawing, causing it to scurry up the trunk and into the branches.

The Squirrel’s Role in the Movie

The squirrel’s appearance in Christmas Vacation is brief but memorable. After Clark falls off of his ladder, he becomes determined to get revenge on the “little varmint” that caused him to fall. He spends much of the rest of the movie trying to catch or kill the squirrel as it wreaks havoc on his family’s holiday celebrations.

The Importance of Animals in Movies

Animals have been used in movies for decades to add humor, drama, and even horror to scenes. Some of Hollywood’s most classic films have featured animals prominently – think Jaws or The Birds.

In Christmas Vacation, the squirrel serves as a comedic foil for Clark Griswold’s character. His frustration with trying to catch it adds an extra layer of humor to an already hilarious movie.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while there are many memorable moments throughout National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, one that stands out is when Clark Griswold falls off of his ladder and discovers a squirrel living in his Christmas tree. The squirrel’s appearances throughout the movie add an extra layer of humor and help make this classic holiday film even more enjoyable for audiences of all ages.