Squirrels in Maryland: Identification Guide and Where to Start Looking
Yes, squirrels are everywhere in Maryland. The state hosts four main species: eastern gray, fox, red, and southern flying squirrels. For quick identification, check the tail: gray squirrels have a bushy, gray tail with white edges, while fox squirrels have a more reddish, less fluffy tail. Start looking in any wooded park or backyard.
Yes, squirrels are everywhere in Maryland. The state hosts four main species: eastern gray, fox, red, and southern flying squirrels. For quick identification, check the tail: gray squirrels have a bushy, gray tail with white edges, while fox squirrels have a more reddish, less fluffy tail. Start looking in any wooded park or backyard.
1. What are the most common squirrel species in Maryland?
Maryland is home to four squirrel species you're likely to encounter. The eastern gray squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) is the most widespread and can be found in almost any wooded area, including suburban backyards. The fox squirrel (Sciurus niger) is larger and favors more open woodlands, especially in the western part of the state. The American red squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus) sticks to coniferous forests, mainly in Garrett County. Finally, the southern flying squirrel (Glaucomys volans) is nocturnal and rarely seen, but lives in mature forests statewide.
2. How do you tell apart gray squirrels and fox squirrels?
Size and tail shape are your best field marks. Fox squirrels are noticeably larger, with a body length of 18 to 27 inches compared to the gray's 15 to 20 inches. The fox squirrel's tail is less bushy and often has a reddish or orange tint, while the gray squirrel's tail looks like a fluffy gray plume with white tips. Face-wise, fox squirrels have a broader, more rounded head and sometimes white ear tufts. In Maryland, fox squirrels are most common in the Piedmont and western regions, while grays dominate everywhere else.
3. Where in Maryland are you most likely to see each species?
For eastern grays, try any park in the Baltimore-Washington corridor or your own backyard. Fox squirrels favor the more open oak-hickory forests of western Maryland, especially in Frederick and Washington counties. Red squirrels are restricted to high-elevation spruce-fir forests like those in theDolly Sodsarea. Flying squirrels are best detected by their presence at bird feeders at night; look for smaller, gray-brown bodies and a distinct gliding membrane. Start checking theMaryland DNR websitefor specific county sightings.
See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.
4. What is the best season for squirrel sightings in Maryland?
Fall is prime time. From September through November, squirrels are hyperactive, gathering acorns and hickory nuts for winter. Early morning, just after sunrise, offers the best odds of seeing them on the ground or in low branches. Winter can be good too, especially on mild days, but activity drops in cold snaps. Spring brings a second peak as they forage for new growth and mate. Summer heat often pushes them into dense cover, so sightings are more limited.
5. What animals are commonly mistaken for squirrels in Maryland?
The eastern chipmunk is the most common lookalike. Chipmunks are smaller, have five dark stripes down their back, and carry their tail flat rather than bushy. Groundhogs (woodchucks) are also mistaken but are much larger, stockier, and live in burrows rather than trees. The rare Allegheny woodrat is sometimes confused with a squirrel, but it has a longer, less bushy tail and prefers rocky habitats. For more on separating these species, check oursquirrel identification hub.
6. How can you identify a red squirrel in Maryland?
Red squirrels are small, about half the size of a gray squirrel, with a rusty-red back and a white belly. They have a distinct white eye ring and a narrow, bushy tail that they often flick rapidly. Listen for their loud, chatter-like alarm calls. In Maryland, they are almost exclusively found in coniferous forests, particularly in the mountainous western counties like Garrett. They are more active during the day than flying squirrels but are still less commonly seen than grays.
7. Squirrel-themed gear for your next outing
If you enjoy squirrel spotting or just want to show off your interest, Easy Street Markets has a range of shirts and apparel. Here are a few top picks:
### Wild Wings Wildlife T-Shirt Gray Squirrel Unisex Graphic Tee For Men & Women
A clean gray squirrel design on a soft cotton tee, perfect for your next walk in the woods.Check Price and Availability
### Squirrel Lover Vintage T-Shirt
A retro-style tee that grabs attention without being too loud. Great for casual wear.Check Price and Availability
### Squirrel Shirt. Squirrel Gift. Squirrel Clothing. Funny Squirrel Shirt.
A fun option for any squirrel lover, with a playful take on these bushy-tailed animals.Check Price and Availability
Browse the full collection ofsquirrel t-shirtsfor more choices.
8. Frequently asked questions about squirrels in Maryland
**Do squirrels in Maryland hibernate?** No, but they become less active in winter and may stay in their dens for days during cold snaps. **What should I feed squirrels?** Unsalted nuts (acorns, walnuts, pecans) and seeds are best. Avoid bread and processed foods. **Are there black squirrels in Maryland?** Yes, melanistic eastern grays are rare but can be found, especially in the Washington, D.C. suburbs. **How can I keep squirrels out of my bird feeder?** Use a baffle or a feeder that shuts when a heavier animal lands. Check ourwildlife tips pagefor more advice.
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