Squirrels

American Red Squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus)

The genus name comes from two words, one of which means shade-tail (Sciurus). The species name refers to the fact that this species was first discovered on Hudson Bay.

The geographical distribution of the North American red squirrel ranges from Alaska, the Yukon, the Northwest Territories, and Quebec southward as far as the Rocky Mountains of New Mexico and Arizona in the west and the Appalachian Mountains of South Carolina in the east.

Except for the flying squirrel, North American red squirrels are the smallest species of tree squirrel in North America. The squirrel measures about 30 cm (approx. 12 inches) from the nose to the tip of the tail and weighs about 225g-300g (approx. 8-11 ounces).

Eastern Grey Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis)

The geographical distribution of the Eastern grey squirrel is primarily in eastern North America, with large populations in Vancouver, where numerous oak and hickory trees are found. These squirrels have been introduced to city parks throughout western Canada.

The eastern grey squirrel is the largest tree squirrel found in eastern Canada.

Fox Squirrel (Sciurus niger)

Next to the Eastern gray squirrel, the fox squirrel is the largest tree squirrel in Saskatchewan. However, its geographic distribution is limited only to the far southeasternmost portion of the province, having been seen as far north as Regina. They prefer to remain in deciduous forests along major river systems and thrive at forest edges relative to other species.

Unlike their boisterous cousins, the red squirrel, fox squirrels are far more secretive, preferring to keep their distance from humans.

Northern Flying Squirrel (Glaucomys sabrinus)

The Northern flying squirrel lives in coniferous and mixed forests of northern Saskatchewan and is found across most of Canada, from Alaska to Nova Scotia, primarily in old-growth forests.

Northern flying squirrels are nocturnal. Between their nocturnal behaviours and the nature of their secluded habitat preferences, Northern flying squirrels are seldom seen.

Interested in learning more about squirrels? Check out the Canadian Encyclopedia for fun facts, natural history information and more, here.