photo by Andrew Cannizzaro
Latin Name: Sciurus niger
Species: Mammal
Conservation Status: S3 - Vulnerable
The largest tree squirrel is the eastern fox squirrel as they oftentimes reach over 20 inches in body length, including their bushy tail. Their coloration varies tremendously but they are often grey, similar to the more common eastern gray squirrel, but can be distinguished by their redder underbelly and larger size. Color does vary by region and squirrels in the east can be grey and black with white markings on the face and southern squirrels can be seen with a black coat.
Range & Habitat (map)
Eastern fox squirrels can be found throughout the entire eastern half of the U.S. except in New England. They are most often seen in savannah-like habitats with widely-spaced trees and an open understory.
Diet
Fox squirrels have a varied diet but eat a lot of nuts and seeds. They often eat oak tree acorns as well as seeds from mulberry, walnut, beech, hawthorn, pecan trees, and many more found in their native range. They will also eat fruits, plant buds and shoots, galls, and even insects and bird eggs as they are omnivores.
Life History
The eastern fox squirrel can live up to 10 years in the wild and reach maturity around 1 year of age. There are two mating seasons per year, one is in early summer, the other in early winter. The gestation period is only 45 days and mothers will give birth to 2-3 babies on average in a litter. One female will produce 2 litters per year. Litters are raised in dens, the summer dens being nest-like structures high in trees called dreys, while winter dens are made from cavities in trees.
Significance
Eastern fox squirrels are incredibly important for the environment as they help spread seeds of deciduous trees such as oaks. They will stash the food they have collected but often forget some buried in the dirt. Ultimately, these forgotten seeds and acorns will grow, promoting the creation of new forest and savannah habitats.
Threats & How You Can Help
Fox squirrels face two major threats, both being caused by humans. Habitat destruction is the main threat these squirrels face as crucial woodland, and especially pine savannah habitat, is destroyed for logging and development. These remaining habitats are also becoming less favorable as understory growth is rising due to wildfire prevention measures. They are also under threat as they are popular hunting game. Preservation of these important habitats throughout their entire range and controlled burning of woodlands can help eastern fox squirrel populations.