Squirrels in Mississippi: identification guide and where to start looking

1. What types of squirrels live in Mississippi?

Mississippi has three established squirrel species. The **eastern gray squirrel** (*Sciurus carolinensis*) is the one you will see most often. The **fox squirrel** (*Sciurus niger*) is bigger and favors open pine savannas. The **southern flying squirrel** (*Glaucomys volans*) is nocturnal and hard to spot. All three are common in different habitats.

2. How can you tell an eastern gray squirrel from a fox squirrel?

The easiest difference is size and color. Fox squirrels are noticeably larger and bulkier. Eastern grays are gray with white belly; fox squirrels can be gray, brown, or even rusty, often with a black face mask. Look at the tail: gray squirrels have a fluffy gray tail with white edges, while fox squirrels have a thicker, less bushy tail. If you see a squirrel climbing a pine tree with a reddish cast, it is likely a fox squirrel.

3. Where in Mississippi are you most likely to see each species?

Eastern gray squirrels are common in towns, parks, and hardwood forests across the state. Fox squirrels prefer open longleaf pine stands and are more often seen in the coastal plain and southern counties like Jackson or Harrison. Southern flying squirrels live in mature mixed forests with plenty of dead snags. Your best odds for a flying squirrel are near old-growth stands in central or northern Mississippi, but you will need a flashlight at dusk.

See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.

4. When is the best time of year to spot squirrels in Mississippi?

Squirrels are active year-round, but early morning and late afternoon are the most productive windows. Leaf-off season (November through February) makes it easier to spot them in the treetops. Spring (March to May) is when they are gathering nesting material and are most visible. Late summer (August) is quiet due to heat, but early fall (September) brings a second activity peak as they cache acorns.

5. What do Mississippi squirrels eat and where do they nest?

Acorns are the main food, but they also eat hickory nuts, pine seeds, berries, and fungi. In urban areas they take birdseed. Gray squirrels build leaf nests (dreys) in forks of large branches; fox squirrels often nest in tree cavities or among pine needles. Flying squirrels use cavities exclusively. If you see a cluster of chewed trunks, that is a sure sign of squirrel activity.

6. How to safely observe squirrels in the wild?

Move slowly and wear neutral clothing. Sit still near a known feeding tree (oak or hickory) and wait 10–15 minutes. Use binoculars for detail. Keep a respectful distance – at least 30 feet. Do not feed them; it alters their natural behavior. In state parks likeClark Creek Natural AreaorTishomingo State Park, squirrels are used to people and provide good photo opportunities.

7. Realistic spotting conditions and what to look for

You will often hear rustling leaves or see a flash of movement first. Listen for a soft chattering alarm call. Gray squirrels usually freeze when aware of you, then dash for a trunk. Fox squirrels are more likely to stay still and rely on camouflage. Look for caches: a squirrel burying an acorn is a strong sign. The best odds come from scanning tree trunks and major branches, especially at dawn.

8. Carry a squirrel ID reference in the field?

If you want a quick visual guide on your phone, check thesquirrel identification hubfor side-by-side photos. It helps separate the tricky fox and gray juveniles. For a printable checklist, theMississippi wildlife pagehas a species breakdown.

9. Show your squirrel pride with a wildlife t-shirt?

After a day of spotting, wearing your find is part of the fun. These shirts let you celebrate squirrels without shouting about them.

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

This quality 100% cotton tee features a realistic gray squirrel print on the front. Perfect for field trips or casual wear.Check Price and Availability

### Squirrel Lover Vintage T-Shirt

A classic vintage-style tee for anyone who enjoys watching these acrobatic rodents.Check Price and Availability

### Vintage Squirrel Graphic Tee

Another retro squirrel design that pairs well with outdoor gear. See more styles at ourt-shirts hub.Check Price and Availability

See ourtour planning ideasfor the next step.

### 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