The most recent open enrollment period - a Squirrel Frenzy - ran from January 15 through January 19. The next one is tentatively planned for April. Watch this space. Better yet, watch the discussion forums linked here for announcements.

The Association

The Squirrel King on his throne, watching his subjects gathering nuts for the royal store rooms. Photo: Blinky the Shark

The Worldwide Squirrel Shooters Association is a group of squirrel fanciers who are pro photographers or enthusiasts.

History

The WSSA was was founded February 17, 2004 by Todd Art (Member 1) with this announcement (and photo) in one of the Nikon forums at DPReview.com (Digital Photography Review):

Yes, the esteemed WSSA (Worldwide Squirrel Shooters Association) has opened it's [sic] membership up and YOU can join! HOW? you ask? Well, it's EASY! Just post a squirrel picture to this thread and you too can put WSSA on your signature, as long as the committee deems your photo to be reasonably competent!

Then, in April 2005 Todd decided to step down as head of the effort and posted this call for applicants for the esteemed position:

Hello folks,

After over a year in my post as Head Squirrel of the WSSA (Worldwide Squirrel Shooters Association), I'm ready to move on and turn over my squirreldom (kingdom of squirrels) to a fine applicant. Duties include:

1. Putting out a "Call for Entries" on Nikon Talk about every other month.

2. Judging entrants based on the quality of the shot--details, composition, color, etc.

3. Being able to tell people their bad photos aren't good enough (but in a nice way).

4. Being able to tell the people with good photos "Congratulations! You're WSSA Member #___"

Applicants should post an example of their squirrel taking skill to this thread and write a 39 word essay (I have a short attention span) as to why they feel they should be named the new "Head Squirrel".

The result was the ascension to the throne of Gaber (Member 40), who with his acceptance recodified the enrollment dues requirements:

In response to an overwhelming series of posts here at NTF from people interested in reviving WSSA (Worldwide Squirrel Shooters Association), I have decided that I will accept the honor of becoming Head Squirrel and carrying on in the fine tradition of our founder Todd Art. You may also refer to me as your Exhausted Leader.

Thanks to Mike Redmond, Treehug, Jim Strathearn and Vernon for their faith in nominating me (not withstanding the fact that no one else wanted the job...it's O.K.)

Now to get down to business. Here are the guidlines for WSSA as set forth by our founder.

Your photo has to be of a squirrel. The photo should:

--be in focus

--be reasonably well exposed

--have no "fatal flaws" (tree limbs in front of the squirrel, etc.)

--be of a living squirrel

It grew and it grew through the efforts of Gaber and other heroes both sung and unsung. And even some that were hummed.

Then it spilled over into the Pentax forums at that site, where Rupert60 formed a chapter with Festus (below) as its mascot. Tomorrow the world! Well, today, actually, since the membership is already multicontinental.

While unaffiliated with the WWSA, this site has a couple of pages of lolcat squirrel images that you might find enjoyable.