Squirrels in Delaware: identification guide and where to start looking

1. Identification markers for the Eastern Gray Squirrel

The Eastern Gray Squirrel is the most frequently seen species in Delaware, recognizable by its medium size and predominantly gray fur. They typically feature a white or light-colored belly and a bushy tail with white-tipped hairs that create a 'frosted' appearance when the squirrel moves. During the winter, their fur can take on a thicker, more brownish-gray tone, but the white belly remains a consistent field mark. They are highly active and agile, often seen jumping between branches in suburban parks and woodlands. For more on their behavioral traits, visit thesquirrel animal pageor explore theDelaware wildlife hubfor common sighting spots.

2. Recognizing the physical traits of the Fox Squirrel

Fox Squirrels are significantly larger than gray squirrels and are easily identified by their reddish-brown or orangish-gray coats. They lack the white belly of the gray squirrel, instead featuring a warm tan or cinnamon-colored underside. Their tails are exceptionally large and bushy, often looking more like a fox's tail, which gives the species its name. In Delaware, they are most common in the southern part of the state, particularly in areas with open pine forests and oak groves. They are less agile than gray squirrels and spend more time foraging on the ground. You can find more details on their identification in oursquirrel route guide.

3. Identifying Delaware's elusive Southern Flying Squirrel

While rarely seen during the day, the Southern Flying Squirrel is a common resident of Delaware's mature hardwood forests. They are much smaller than gray squirrels, with large, dark eyes adapted for their nocturnal lifestyle. The most distinct marker is the fold of skin, or patagium, that stretches between their front and hind legs, allowing them to glide from tree to tree. If you are in a forest at dusk and see a small, grayish silhouette silently gliding through the canopy, it is almost certainly a flying squirrel. They are highly social and often nest in old woodpecker holes or tree cavities, which you can learn about on thesquirrel identification hub.

4. How to identify squirrel nests and dreys

A reliable way to confirm the presence of squirrels in a Delaware forest is to look for 'dreys,' which are bulky nests made of leaves and twigs. Unlike bird nests, dreys are typically larger, more chaotic in appearance, and located high in the forks of mature trees. During the fall and winter, these leaf clusters become very visible as the trees lose their foliage. Gray squirrels often build several nests within a small area, while fox squirrels tend to use larger, more permanent tree cavities whenever available. Identifying these nesting sites is a key step in understanding local squirrel populations, as explained in ourstate wildlife hub.

5. Identifying tracks and foraging signs

Squirrel tracks in Delaware are often found in mud or light snow, showing four toes on the front feet and five on the larger hind feet. Their gait is a distinctive 'gallop,' with the larger hind feet landing in front of the front feet. You can also identify their presence by looking for foraging signs, such as chewed nut shells at the base of trees or small holes where they have buried or retrieved acorns. Different species have different nut-cracking techniques; for example, gray squirrels tend to break acorns into many small pieces, while larger fox squirrels may leave more intact halves. See ourstate animal guidefor more tracking tips.

What squirrel-themed gear can you use to show your interest?

After a successful day of squirrel watching, you might want to wear your experience. Here are two squirrel t-shirts that fit the bill.

Wild Wings Wildlife T-Shirt Gray Squirrel Unisex Graphic Tee For Men & Women

A realistic gray squirrel print on a soft cotton tee. Great for casual wear or as a conversation starter on your next park visit.Check Price and Availability

Squirrel Lover Vintage T-Shirt

A retro-style design for those who appreciate squirrels. Lightweight and comfortable for outdoor walks.Check Price and Availability

For more squirrel apparel, browse oursquirrel t-shirts collection.

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

How do you identify a Fox squirrel in Delaware?

Identify a Fox squirrel by its large size, which is nearly double that of a gray squirrel, and its distinctive reddish-brown or orangish fur. Unlike gray squirrels, they have a warm tan or cinnamon-colored belly and a much larger, fluffier tail. They are most commonly seen in the southern counties of Delaware near pine and oak forests.

What is the most common squirrel in Delaware?

The Eastern Gray Squirrel is the most common species in Delaware, found in virtually every environment that has trees. They are the standard gray squirrels seen in Wilmington's city parks, suburban backyards, and rural forests statewide. Their white belly and 'frosted' gray tail are their most recognizable features.

Can you see flying squirrels in Delaware?

Yes, Southern Flying Squirrels live throughout Delaware, but they are rarely seen because they are strictly nocturnal. They are much smaller than other squirrels and have large, dark eyes. To identify them, you must look for them gliding between trees in mature hardwood forests during the early evening or nighttime hours.

How can I tell a squirrel nest from a bird nest?

A squirrel nest, known as a drey, is typically much larger and more ball-shaped than a bird's nest, often reaching the size of a basketball. It is constructed primarily of dried leaves and twigs and is usually wedged into a high tree fork. Bird nests are generally smaller, more cup-shaped, and use finer materials like grass, mud, or hair.