Squirrels in Louisiana: identification guide and where to start looking
Louisiana hosts three main squirrel species: the eastern gray, fox, and southern flying squirrel. The eastern gray is most common statewide, especially in urban parks and wooded neighborhoods. Fox squirrels prefer open pine forests and are larger. Start your search in any city park or backyard with mature oak or pine trees.
Louisiana hosts three main squirrel species: the eastern gray, fox, and southern flying squirrel. The eastern gray is most common statewide, especially in urban parks and wooded neighborhoods. Fox squirrels prefer open pine forests and are larger. Start your search in any city park or backyard with mature oak or pine trees.
What are the most common squirrel species in Louisiana?
Louisiana has three resident squirrel species. The eastern gray squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) is the one you will most likely see. It has gray fur with a white belly and a bushy tail. The fox squirrel (Sciurus niger) is larger, with a mix of rust, gray, and black on its back. The southern flying squirrel is nocturnal and rarely seen, but it lives in mature forests across the state. The main lookalike issue is between the eastern gray and fox squirrel, especially in areas where their ranges overlap.
Where in the state do you usually notice them first?
Most people spot squirrels in their own backyard or while walking through city parks. Eastern grays are common in Baton Rouge, New Orleans, and Shreveport. Fox squirrels are more frequent in the longleaf pine forests of central and western Louisiana, such as Kisatchie National Forest. If you are near large oaks or pecan trees, you have good odds. Check out theLouisiana wildlifepage for more habitat details.
What is the best time of day or season for squirrel sightings?
Squirrels are active year-round in Louisiana, but the best chance to see them is early morning (first two hours after sunrise) and late afternoon (two hours before sunset). During the hot midday, they rest. Late summer and fall are prime times because squirrels are gathering and storing nuts. Winter mornings after a cold snap often drive them to feeders or open areas. Spring brings young squirrels venturing out, but they are still wary.
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How can you tell apart the eastern gray squirrel from the fox squirrel?
Size is the quickest clue. Fox squirrels are noticeably bigger, about 20 inches long including tail, while eastern grays are about 18 inches. Look at the face: fox squirrels have a broader, more rounded head and often a reddish wash on the belly. Gray squirrels have a white belly and a narrower face. In Louisiana, the fox squirrel's tail is often less bushy. Also, fox squirrels tend to spend more time on the ground, while grays are frequent tree climbers.
Do any other squirrel species live in Louisiana?
The southern flying squirrel (Glaucomys volans) is present in mature hardwood forests across the state, but it is strictly nocturnal. You might see it if you install a nest box or go on a night hike. It is small (about 10 inches) with a flat tail and loose skin for gliding. It has large eyes and is often mistaken for a bat at first glance. Learn more about its relatives on the/animals/squirrelhub.
What squirrel-themed apparel can you wear while spotting?
If you want to show your appreciation for squirrels while out in the field, a comfortable t-shirt is a good start. Consider thisWild Wings Wildlife T-Shirt Gray Squirrel Unisex Graphic Tee.
This shirt features a realistic gray squirrel design that fits well for both men and women. It is made from 100% cotton and works for a day in the park.
Another option is theSquirrel Lover Vintage T-Shirt.
Its retro style appeals to anyone who spends time watching squirrels. For a full selection, browse the/t-shirtscategory.
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A strong match for this wildlife page and an easy next click after the guide.Check Price and Availability
What else do people ask about squirrels in Louisiana?
**Are there black squirrels in Louisiana?** Yes, but they are just a color morph of the eastern gray squirrel. You might see them in some suburban areas.
**Do squirrels carry diseases in Louisiana?** Squirrels can carry ticks and fleas, but the risk of disease is low. Avoid handling them.
**What do Louisiana squirrels eat?** Mainly acorns, pecans, pine seeds, and occasional fruit. They also raid bird feeders.
**When do squirrels nest in Louisiana?** They breed twice a year: early spring and late summer. Nests (dreys) are visible in winter after leaves fall.
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