Derrick Downey Jr. didn’t expect a squirrel to become part of his daily life, but Maxine isn’t just any squirrel. What started as casual feeding sessions outside his Los Angeles home turned into a full-blown friendship. Over time, Derrick began sharing clips of their interactions on TikTok and Instagram—giving followers front-row seats to their bond. With a tiny squirrel house built right on his patio and a children's book dedicated to Maxine, she quickly became the face of his backyard world.
Then, out of nowhere, Maxine vanished in early June. Derrick noticed her absence immediately—her lively visits and head-tilting sass went quiet. He was worried. She’d been around for years. And just when hope started fading, the unexpected happened. On July 4th, Maxine showed up again, strolling back like she never left. Derrick couldn’t believe it.
@derrickdowneyjrThese past few weeks have been heavy. I didn’t have much energy, barely wanted to get out of bed. What finally got me moving was the hope that I’d see Maxine outside but with each day that passed without seeing her, the worry deepened and old wounds began to resurface. Therapy helped, and so did this moment right here. ❤️🐿️♬ original sound - Derrick Downey Jr.
Naturally, he had questions. Where had she been? Was she okay? But Maxine wasn’t offering answers. The viral video of their reunion shows her unbothered by Derrick’s curiosity. She throws him a look, climbs around casually, and when he asks about her whereabouts, she shuts it down. People picked up on it fast: this squirrel wasn’t answering to anyone.
Social media lit up with reactions. “She said what she said. Periodt!” one viewer declared, capturing the mood.
Others followed with playful support. “Maxine’s a grown woman now,” read one reply. “She’s clearly been living her best life,” said another. And in classic internet fashion: “She’s been spending that TikTok money!”
But the story didn’t stop there. Maxine returned with more than attitude—she came back with signs of motherhood. Several viewers noticed she looked like she had babies, and it turns out they were right. Maxine had been pregnant, and not only did she let Derrick gently feel her belly, but she also brought her babies to visit.
Instagram | derrickdowneyjr | Maxine came back with both a new attitude and the evidence of motherhood.
One user suggested tracking Maxine, so Derrick could always know if she’s safe. While he hasn’t said if that’s happening, it’s clear their bond goes beyond a few shared snacks. It’s not every day you see a squirrel bond with a person like this—but Maxine’s no ordinary backyard visitor. To Derrick, she’s family.
Their connection keeps winning hearts. Whether she’s playfully ignoring his questions or showing up with her babies in tow, Maxine is proof that even the tiniest animals can leave a lasting mark.
The special bond between a human and a wild squirrel doesn’t follow any rules. And when that squirrel has as much personality as Maxine, every visit is a surprise worth watching.