GRAY SQUIRREL
Sciurus carolinensis
(Sciuridae)
Description
The Gray Squirrel can best be identified in relation to the more common Fox Squirrel (Sciurus niger). Gray Squirrels are smaller, weighing about half as much as Fox Squirrels. They have white underparts, silvery tips of tail hairs (C) and usually white tufts behind the ears (B,E). Their vocalization is very different from that of the Fox Squirrels.
Occurrence
The abundance of Gray Squirrels has increased in Fontenelle Forest during the past 25 years, especially during the past 10 years. But they are still less common when compared to the Fox Squirrel. There are no recent reports from Neale Woods, but they were not present there 30 years ago. During the summer they are more wary than Fox Squirrels, quickly running and climbing for cover when approached. They can best be observed and heard in winter, when they seem less wary. They are often seen along Camp Gifford Road, on the way to the floodplain, when they are found licking road salt.
Disclaimer: The content of NatureSearch is provided by dedicated volunteer Naturalists of Fontenelle Nature Association who strive to provide the most accurate information available. Contributors of the images retain their copyrights. The point of contact for this page
is: Roland Barth.
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