Squirrels in Louisiana: Where to Look and What Signs to Watch For

1. Where are squirrels most likely found in Louisiana?

Squirrels adapt well to Louisiana's varied habitats. You'll find them in bottomland hardwoods, pine forests, and even urban areas like New Orleans' City Park or Baton Rouge's LSU campus. The eastern gray squirrel dominates, but fox squirrels prefer more open pine savannas. Check areas with oak, hickory, and pecan trees for the best odds.

See our state wildlife page for the next step.

2. When is the best time of day and season to see squirrels?

Squirrels are most active during the early morning hours (sunrise to mid-morning) and late afternoon (around 4-6 PM). They are active year-round in Louisiana, but you may see them more in fall as they stash food. During hot summer midday, they often rest in leaf nests or shady branches. Winter mornings are especially good because they forage longer to maintain energy.

See our Squirrels guide for the next step.

3. What field signs can help you identify squirrel activity?

Look for leaf nests (dreys) high in tree forks, often a messy ball of leaves. On the ground, you might find chewed nut shells with clean cuts or bark stripped from branches. Squirrel tracks show four toes on front feet and five on hind feet; in mud or soft soil, look for bounding patterns. Listen for chattering barks or the rustle of leaves as they move.

See our state animal guide for the next step.

4. Which squirrel species live in Louisiana?

Three main species: the eastern gray squirrel (most common, gray with white belly), the fox squirrel (larger, reddish-brown, often in pine areas), and the southern flying squirrel (nocturnal, small, with a flap of skin between legs). The gray squirrel is your best bet for daytime spotting. Fox squirrels are more shy but can be seen in rural woodlands.

5. How do squirrels behave and move?

Squirrels are agile climbers and can leap between branches. They often move in a series of quick dashes and stops. When feeding, they sit upright holding nuts. During fall, they scatter-hoard food by digging small holes. You might see them chasing each other in spring mating chases. Their tail flicks and alarm calls warn other squirrels of danger.