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Red Squirrel
Tamiasciurus hudsonicus
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Habitat
Found statewide, mostly around dense evergreen stands or mixed forests of deciduous and evergreen trees.
Diet
This herbivore mostly eats seeds from spruce, fir, hemlock, and pine (look for shredded cones on rocks), but also tree buds, fruit, mushrooms, maple sap, and occasionally insects and bird eggs. They store food in piles inside tree stumps or underground for winter.
Distinctive Characteristics
A small squirrel with reddish-brown fur and long, bushy tail that makes a harsh scolding sound when disturbed.
Predators
Fisher, marten, ermines, and hawks.
Nocturnal/Diurnal
Active year round, mostly by day.
Reproduction & Family Structure
Three to six young are born in two litters, one in the spring and another in late summer.
Living with Wildlife
How to Prevent or Resolve Conflicts with Squirrels
While many people enjoy the presence of squirrels and the opportunity to observe their behavior, they can become an issue if they take residence inside your home’s attic or other locations. And are known to enjoy feeders intended for birds.
Learn more about how to prevent or resolve conflicts with squirrels