Eastern Gray Squirrel

Native to the hardwood forests of eastern North America, the eastern gray squirrel thrives in oak, hickory, and walnut environments. Its population is regulated by food availability and natural predators like bobcats, owls, and foxes.

Introduced to Britain, this species has turned into an agricultural nuisance and has significantly reduced the population of the European red squirrel through competition.

Active during the day, the eastern gray squirrel has a varied diet that includes seeds from pine cones, nuts, berries, insects, bird eggs, and sometimes tree sap from young trees.

An adult eastern gray squirrel can consume as much as three ounces (80 grams) of shelled nuts daily.

This species plays a crucial role in tree distribution and growth by burying nuts across its habitat, aiding in seed dispersal and forest regeneration.

Typically, the eastern gray squirrel constructs its leafy nest within tree cavities or the forks of branches.

Animal Facts

Name: Eastern Gray Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis)

Family: Sciuridae (Squirrels)

Range: Native to eastern North America; also introduced and established in Britain

Habitat: Forests, woodlands, cultivated regions, and urban parks

Diet: Consists of nuts, seeds, flowers, fruits, fungi, and tree buds

Head and Body Length: Measures between 9 and 12 inches (23 to 30 cm)

Tail Length: Ranges from 8 to 9 inches (21 to 23 cm)

Weight: Weighs between 14 and 25 ounces (400 to 700 grams)

Life Cycle: Breeding occurs from December to August; gestation lasts approximately 40 days, resulting in the birth of two to five offspring

Description: Features grizzled fur ranging from dark to pale gray, with white or light underparts. It has large eyes, no ear tufts, and a long, bushy tail

Conservation Status: Classified as common