Squirrels in Massachusetts: where to look and what signs to watch for

1. Boston Public Garden

The Boston Public Garden is one of the most famous places for squirrel watching in Massachusetts. The park's many large trees and open lawns provide ideal habitats for eastern gray squirrels. They are very accustomed to humans and can be seen foraging and playing throughout the year. It is a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike.

2. Harvard University Campus

The Harvard University campus in Cambridge is another excellent urban spot for squirrel watching. The campus's mature trees and numerous courtyards provide a safe and productive environment for squirrels. They are a familiar and entertaining sight for students and visitors, often seen collecting nuts and chasing each other across the lawns.

3. Blue Hills Reservation

The Blue Hills Reservation near Boston offers a more natural forest setting for squirrel watching. Both eastern gray squirrels and the larger eastern fox squirrels can be found here. The reservation's diverse terrain and variety of nut-bearing trees provide excellent foraging grounds. Look for them along the many hiking trails and near the park's water features.

4. Mount Auburn Cemetery

Mount Auburn Cemetery in Cambridge and Watertown is not only a historic landmark but also a premier spot for wildlife watching, including squirrels. The cemetery's diverse collections of trees and shrubs provide abundant food and nesting sites. It is a quiet and beautiful place to observe squirrels in a peaceful and well-maintained landscape.

5. Quabbin Reservoir

The Quabbin Reservoir in central Massachusetts offers vast tracts of protected forest that are ideal for observing squirrels in a truly wild setting. You can find several species here, including the elusive southern flying squirrel, which is active at night. The reservoir's diverse habitats support a healthy and active squirrel population throughout the year.

How to plan a realistic Massachusetts squirrel trip

A good Massachusetts squirrel plan involves visiting wooded parks and gardens during the early morning and late afternoon when they are most active. Bring some nuts or seeds if you want to attract them closer, but always be respectful of their wild nature. Use theMassachusetts wildlife hubfor more location ideas.

What are the most common squirrels in Massachusetts?

The eastern gray squirrel is by far the most common species. You may also encounter the eastern fox squirrel, which is larger and has more reddish fur. Red squirrels are found in more coniferous forests, and southern flying squirrels are present but rarely seen due to their nocturnal habits. For more identification tips, see oursquirrel guide.

Squirrel-themed gifts for animal lovers

If you enjoy the antics of squirrels in your yard, you might enjoy these themed items for your home or as a gift.

Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeder []() A practical and fun way to manage wildlife in your yard. Keeps the birds fed while challenging the clever squirrels. Check Price and Availability

When are squirrels most active in Massachusetts?

Squirrels in Massachusetts are active year-round and do not hibernate. They are most active during the early morning and late afternoon hours. In the fall, they are especially busy gathering and burying nuts for the winter. During extremely cold or snowy weather, they may spend more time in their nests to conserve energy.

What is the role of squirrels in Massachusetts's forests?

Squirrels are important seed dispersers. They bury thousands of acorns and other nuts each year, many of which they never recover. These forgotten caches allow new trees to sprout and grow, helping to maintain the health and diversity of Massachusetts's forests. They are a vital part of the natural cycle across the state.

How can I attract more squirrels to my Massachusetts yard?

Providing a consistent food source like a squirrel feeder with corn or sunflower seeds is the best way to attract them. Planting nut-bearing trees like oaks, hickories, and walnuts will also encourage them to stay. Providing a water source and safe nesting sites like large trees will also make your yard more attractive to local squirrels.