Squirrel

The American Red Squirrel is the most common species of tree squirrels. They are small reddish grey squirrels with white or cream color on their... more

by Robert Bales

Title

Squirrel

Artist

Robert Bales

Medium

Photograph - Photo

Description

The American Red Squirrel is the most common species of tree squirrels. They are small reddish grey squirrels with white or cream color on their belly. During the summer months red squirrels are identified by a black stripe on their side. Slightly smaller than their cousin the grey squirrel, the red squirrel is 12 inches nose to tail. Its tail is not as long or bushy as other squirrels. They shed their coats twice a year from a thinner summer coat to a darker winter coat.
Found in Alaska, Canada, the northeastern United States and southern Georgia, the American Red Squirrel makes its nest inside the cavity and at the tops of trees. Unlike their Grey Squirrel cousins, Red Squirrels are solitary animals very reluctant to share their food with others, although they share a den during the winter months to keep warm. Active just before winter, they hoard lots of food in burrows in the ground, in neighboring trees and nests. The American Red Squirrel eats the seeds of trees, bird eggs, berries, tree sap, pine seeds, and the Amanita mushroom which is poisonous to humans. They are very active in the morning and late evening taking naps in the middle of the day to avoid the heat.

Uploaded

November 2nd, 2011