Squirrels in Delaware: Where to Look and What Signs to Watch For
Yes, squirrels are incredibly common throughout Delaware and can be found in every county, from the northern suburbs of Wilmington to the southern coastal forests of Sussex County. The most frequent species you will encounter is the eastern gray squirrel, which thrives in mature hardwood forests and suburban neighborhoods alike. However, Delaware is also home to the unique Delmarva fox squirrel, a larger and once-endangered species that is a highlight for many wildlife watchers in the state. By matching your outing to the early morning or late afternoon feeding windows, you can ensure a successful sighting of these active and entertaining rodents.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated July 2, 2026.
Eastern Gray Squirrel 路 inbetweenbays CC BY
Eastern Gray Squirrel 路 inbetweenbays CC BY
Groundhog 路 Elizabeth Green CC BY
- 6
- species recorded
- 1,062
- GBIF records
- May, June, April
- peak months
Verified species, source iNaturalist
5 types of squirrels recorded in Delaware
5 squirrel species have a verified observation record in Delaware across the squirrel family (Sciuridae), each with at least 10 confirmed sightings. The full list, ranked by how often each is recorded, is below.
1
2
3
4
5
Plus 1 more recorded only rarely (fewer than 10 verified sightings). Counts from verified iNaturalist observations. Photos by iNaturalist observers, reused under the licence each observer chose.
Real sighting data, source iNaturalist
1,515 verified observations on iNaturalist of squirrel have been recorded in Delaware, most often in May, June, April.
When squirrel are recorded in Delaware
Yes, squirrels are incredibly common throughout Delaware and can be found in every county, from the northern suburbs of Wilmington to the southern coastal forests of Sussex County. The most frequent species you will encounter is the eastern gray squirrel, which thrives in mature hardwood forests and suburban neighborhoods alike. However, Delaware is also home to the unique Delmarva fox squirrel, a larger and once-endangered species that is a highlight for many wildlife watchers in the state. By matching your outing to the early morning or late afternoon feeding windows, you can ensure a successful sighting of these active and entertaining rodents.
1. Where are squirrels most likely found in Delaware?
Squirrels are most common in mature hardwood forests with oak, hickory, and beech trees. In Delaware, look for them in state parks like Lums Pond State Park and Cape Henlopen State Park. Suburban areas with large shade trees also host healthy populations. For more on squirrel habitats, visit oursquirrel page.
In Delaware, squirrels sightings usually improve when you slow down and match your first stop to where the animal is most likely in the state. Use thestate wildlife huband theroute guideto narrow your first area, then check access, weather, and distance before you settle in. A short walk with one clear viewing plan often beats covering too much ground, especially when habitat changes fast from open edges to brush, wetlands, timber, shoreline, or neighborhood cover.
2. What time of day is best for spotting squirrels?
Squirrels are most active during the early morning and late afternoon. In summer, they often rest in the middle of the day to avoid the heat. Plan your outings between 6 and 9 AM or 4 and 7 PM for the best chances. Overcast days can extend activity periods as squirrels feel safer moving in the lower light.
3. How can you identify squirrel signs?
Look for tracks showing four toes on the front feet and five on the back, with a bounding pattern. Droppings are small, oblong pellets. Gnaw marks on nuts and pinecones are clear signs. Listen for rustling leaves and chattering calls. These signs can also indicate the presence of other mammals likefoxes.
See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.
4. What species of squirrels live in Delaware?
Delaware has three main species: the eastern gray squirrel, the eastern fox squirrel (including the Delmarva subspecies), and the southern flying squirrel. The gray squirrel is most common and is found statewide. The Delmarva fox squirrel is larger and was once endangered, but it is now thriving in areas like the Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge. Flying squirrels are nocturnal and less often seen.
5. What do squirrels eat in Delaware?
Squirrels primarily eat nuts, acorns, seeds, and fruits. In spring they may eat tree buds and insects for protein. In fall they cache food for winter by burying individual nuts in the ground. At bird feeders, they favor sunflower seeds and peanuts. For more on Delaware wildlife, see ourDelaware wildlife hub.
6. When is the best season for squirrel spotting?
Fall is the best season because squirrels are busy gathering and caching food for the winter. They are highly visible and active during this time. Spring is also good as they forage for new growth and tree buds. Winter sightings are possible on mild days near feeders, while summer activity is lower in the midday heat.
How do you identify a Delmarva fox squirrel?
Identifying a Delmarva fox squirrel involves looking for its significantly larger size compared to the common gray squirrel. They have a short, rounded face and a very bushy tail that is often held flat against the ground when they run. Their fur is a distinct silver-gray with a white belly. If you see a particularly large, slow-moving squirrel in a pine forest on the Eastern Shore, you likely found this unique Delaware resident.
Are squirrels protected by law in Delaware?
Eastern gray squirrels and fox squirrels are managed as game animals in Delaware, with specific hunting seasons and bag limits. However, the Delmarva fox squirrel, while no longer on the federal endangered species list, is still carefully monitored by state wildlife officials. It is illegal to hunt or disturb these animals in many protected areas. For current regulations, visit theDelaware wildlife hub.
7. Where to find better squirrel viewing spots
Use this interactive tool to find nearby parks and trails known for squirrel activity. Enter your location to get specific recommendations for Delaware.
8. What gear helps you enjoy squirrel watching?
A good pair of binoculars enhances close observation of their complex behaviors. A field notebook helps record when and where you see different species. For a bit of fun wear, check out these squirrel-themed designs from Easy Street Markets.
Wild Wings Wildlife T-Shirt Gray Squirrel
A comfortable 100% cotton tee featuring a realistic gray squirrel graphic. Great for casual outings or as a gift.
Squirrel Lover Vintage T-Shirt
A vintage-style design for squirrel fans. Lightweight and casual. See our fullwildlife t-shirt collectionfor more options.
Squirrel Shirt. Squirrel Gift. Squirrel Clothing. Funny Squirrel Shirt. Squirrels Shirt. Squirrel Tshirt. Squirrel Lover Gift. #OS5686
A strong match for this wildlife page and an easy next click after the guide.Check Price and Availability
9. Frequently Asked Questions
Can you legally feed squirrels in Delaware? Yes, feeding squirrels is generally permitted on private property, but avoid processed foods. Stick to raw nuts and seeds. Always check local park rules before feeding wildlife in public spaces.
How can I keep squirrels out of my bird feeder? Use squirrel-proof feeders or place feeders on poles with baffles. Providing a separate feeding area for squirrels can also distract them from your bird seed.
What should I do if I find a baby squirrel? Leave it alone if it appears healthy and is furred, as the mother is likely nearby. If the animal is injured or cold to the touch, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator in Delaware.
Are flying squirrels common in Delaware? Yes, but they are rarely seen because they are strictly nocturnal. They live in hardwood forests across the state and are often only detected by their high-pitched calls at night.
See ourtour planning ideasfor the next step.
Gear and field guides
Plan your trip
Best time to see squirrel in Delaware: May, June, April
See the month-by-month sighting calendar.
Plan your squirrel sighting in Delaware
1,062 verified squirrel records have been logged in Delaware, most recently in 2026. See the GBIF records.
Where to look in Delaware
- Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail 路 Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching 路 Find hotels
- Chesapeake Bay 路 Wildlife Watching 路 Find hotels
- First State National Historical Park 路 Find hotels
- Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail 路 Find hotels
Frequently asked questions
What squirrel species live in Delaware?+
Squirrels are most common in mature hardwood forests with oak, hickory, and beech trees. In Delaware, look for them in state parks like Lums Pond State Park and Cape Henlopen State Park. Suburban areas with large shade trees also host healthy populations. For more on squirrel habitats, visit oursquirrel page. In Delaware, squirrels sightings usually improve when you slow down and match your first stop to where the animal is most likely in the state. Use thestate wildlife huband theroute guideto narrow your first area, then check access, weather, and distance before you settle in. A short walk with one clear viewing plan often beats covering too much ground, especially when habitat changes fast from open edges to brush, wetlands, timber, shoreline, or neighborhood cover.
Where can you see squirrels in Delaware?+
Squirrels are most common in mature hardwood forests with oak, hickory, and beech trees. In Delaware, look for them in state parks like Lums Pond State Park and Cape Henlopen State Park. Suburban areas with large shade trees also host healthy populations. For more on squirrel habitats, visit oursquirrel page. In Delaware, squirrels sightings usually improve when you slow down and match your first stop to where the animal is most likely in the state. Use thestate wildlife huband theroute guideto narrow your first area, then check access, weather, and distance before you settle in. A short walk with one clear viewing plan often beats covering too much ground, especially when habitat changes fast from open edges to brush, wetlands, timber, shoreline, or neighborhood cover.
When is the best time to see squirrels in Delaware?+
Squirrels are most common in mature hardwood forests with oak, hickory, and beech trees. In Delaware, look for them in state parks like Lums Pond State Park and Cape Henlopen State Park. Suburban areas with large shade trees also host healthy populations. For more on squirrel habitats, visit oursquirrel page. In Delaware, squirrels sightings usually improve when you slow down and match your first stop to where the animal is most likely in the state. Use thestate wildlife huband theroute guideto narrow your first area, then check access, weather, and distance before you settle in. A short walk with one clear viewing plan often beats covering too much ground, especially when habitat changes fast from open edges to brush, wetlands, timber, shoreline, or neighborhood cover.
Keep exploring
More places to see squirrel
More wildlife in Delaware