IHEA logo Guide to Wildlife Identification

What You Should Know | Finding Wildlife | Game or Non-Game | Techniques | Signs | Distribution | Warning for Hunters | Final Quiz | Over 100 Wildlife Fact Sheets


Fox Squirrel

(Sciurus niger)

Other common names: Sometimes called a red squirrel because of its reddish color. Fox squirrels vary in color considerably depending on the area they live in. They range from jet black to gray and red in color.

Size:

  •  10 to 15 in. (25 to 38 cm) not including tail.
  •  Weighs around 1 1/5 to 3 lb. (544 to 1362 g).

Distribution in North America:

range map

 


Habitat:

  • Pine and hardwood forests, chiefly nut trees.

Notes:

  • Nests in tree cavities or in nests made of twigs and leaves.
  • Frequently forages on ground, and may venture out into farm fields.

Be sure to check local regulations for hunting or trapping information on this species.

fox squirrelfox squirrel in black and white

Tracks
front: 1 1/2" x 1 1/4"  
hind: 1 3/4" x 1 1/4"

home next back