Tennessee, with its rich forests and beautiful landscapes, is a haven for wildlife, including a variety of squirrels. These bushy-tailed creatures are not just a delight to watch — they play a crucial role in the ecosystem.
If you’re a nature enthusiast or a curious observer, you might find it fascinating to learn about the different types of squirrels that call Tennessee their home.
This blog post explores the five common squirrel species in the Volunteer State and some interesting facts about each.
1. Eastern Gray Squirrel
The eastern gray squirrel is the most frequently spotted squirrel in Tennessee. With its distinctive gray and white fur and bushy tail, it’s hard to miss in backyards and parks.
These squirrels are active year-round and are known for their acrobatic skills, often seen leaping from branch to branch. In addition to their arboreal activities, eastern gray squirrels play a crucial role in forest ecology by aiding in seed dispersal.
They have two litters per year, which contributes to their thriving population. While they are adorable, their high numbers sometimes lead them to invade homes looking for shelter, requiring the help of squirrel removal services in Tennessee.
2. Southern Flying Squirrels
Southern flying squirrels are a unique species found in Tennessee. These small creatures are known for their remarkable gliding ability, using a special membrane between their legs and body to move through the air.
Unlike other squirrels, they are nocturnal, making them a more elusive sight in the state. Southern flying squirrels typically have two to seven young per litter and have a diverse diet, including fruits, nuts, fungi, and insects.
During the winter months, these squirrels often live in groups for warmth and shelter, which can lead them to inhabit spaces like attics and crawl spaces in homes.
3. Northern Flying Squirrels
The northern flying squirrel, another species residing in Tennessee, shares many characteristics with its southern counterpart. These squirrels also have the ability to glide between trees but are generally more elusive. They too are nocturnal and less commonly seen compared to other squirrel species.
In the colder months, northern flying squirrels also exhibit communal behavior, seeking shelter in groups. This habit sometimes necessitates squirrel removal services when they choose residential areas for their winter homes.
4. Fox Squirrels
The fox squirrel, also known as the eastern fox squirrel or Bryant’s fox squirrel, is the largest squirrel species in Tennessee. They get their name from their fox-like appearance, with a reddish underbelly and large size.
Fox squirrels are known to have a varied diet that includes nuts, seeds, fruits, and occasionally insects, which they forage during the day. Unlike the gray squirrel, fox squirrels prefer to stay away from busy urban areas, choosing the calm of the woods and parks instead.
They are mostly found up in the trees and are less likely to be seen foraging on the ground. Their breeding season typically results in two to three young per litter, further contributing to their presence in Tennessee’s wooded areas.
5. American Red Squirrels
The American red squirrel, also known as the pine squirrel or piney squirrel, is another common species in Tennessee. They are smaller than gray squirrels and have a distinct reddish fur.
True to their name, they love pine trees and are often found in wooded areas rich in these conifers.
In addition to pine cones, their diet includes seeds, nuts, fruits, and even small insects, providing them with a varied nutritional intake.
Their diet primarily consists of pine cones, and they are known to spend most of their time up in the trees, making them a less common sight in urban areas.
American red squirrels are also known for their territorial nature, often vigorously defending their feeding and nesting areas from other squirrels and intruders.
Understanding the diverse species of squirrels in Tennessee enriches our appreciation of the state’s natural beauty and wildlife. Each species adds a unique charm to the outdoors.
While these creatures are generally harmless, it’s important to remember that they are wild animals and should be observed from a distance. If squirrels become a problem in your home, contacting professional squirrel control services is recommended to safely and humanely address the issue.
