Squirrels in New Jersey: Identification Guide and Where to Start Looking
New Jersey is home to three common squirrel species: the eastern gray, the red squirrel, and the southern flying squirrel. This guide covers key field marks to tell them apart and the best spots to find them across the state. Start by looking in wooded parks and suburban backyards, especially around oak and hickory trees.
New Jersey is home to three common squirrel species: the eastern gray, the red squirrel, and the southern flying squirrel. This guide covers key field marks to tell them apart and the best spots to find them across the state. Start by looking in wooded parks and suburban backyards, especially around oak and hickory trees.
1. Which squirrel species are found in New Jersey?
New Jersey hosts three main squirrel species: the eastern gray squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis), the red squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus), and the southern flying squirrel (Glaucomys volans). The eastern gray is by far the most common, seen in parks and backyards statewide. Red squirrels are smaller and prefer coniferous or mixed forests, while flying squirrels are strictly nocturnal and rarely seen unless you search specifically.
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2. What are the key field marks to identify eastern gray squirrels?
Eastern gray squirrels have grayish-brown fur, a white belly, and a long, bushy tail. They typically measure 9 to 12 inches in body length with a tail of similar length. Their ears are small and rounded. In urban areas, they may appear darker. Look for them actively foraging on the ground or in trees, especially during fall when they stash acorns.
3. How can I distinguish a red squirrel from a gray squirrel?
Red squirrels are noticeably smaller, around 7 to 9 inches, with rusty reddish fur and a white eye ring. Their tails are less bushy and often flattened. They are more vocal and territorial, frequently chattering from tree branches. Red squirrels prefer coniferous forests but also frequent mixed woodlands; they are less common in dense suburbs than grays.
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4. Where in New Jersey are squirrels most common?
Squirrels are common statewide, but your best odds for sightings are in mature deciduous forests, parks, and suburban neighborhoods. Start with places like Watchung Reservation in Union County, South Mountain Reservation in Essex County, or Island Beach State Park in Ocean County. Backyards with oak, hickory, or walnut trees are reliable spots, especially near bird feeders.
5. What time of year is best for squirrel watching?
Fall is the best season because squirrels are highly active gathering and caching nuts. Early morning and late afternoon offer the most activity. Spring can be good too, especially as young emerge from nests. Summer activity tends to be lower during hot afternoons, and winter sightings depend on food availability; they remain active but are less visible during cold snaps.
6. What should I look for to identify a southern flying squirrel?
Southern flying squirrels are small (5 to 6 inches), with a loose flap of skin called a patagium that allows them to glide. They have large, dark eyes adapted for night vision and a flattened tail. Their fur is grayish-brown with a white underside. To see them, visit mature forests with dead snags or cavity trees. Use a flashlight at dusk near feeding stations with sunflower seeds.
7. How can I separate squirrels from similar-looking animals in New Jersey?
Chipmunks are smaller, have distinct stripes on the back and head, and a less bushy tail. Groundhogs are much larger and spend most of their time on the ground. Northern flying squirrels are rare in New Jersey and have a more restricted range; they may be confused with southern flying squirrels but are slightly larger with a different distribution. Focus on habitat and size.
8. Where can I find squirrel-related gear and apparel?
If you want to show your squirrel appreciation, check out the Easy Street Markets collection of wildlife shirts. The Wild Wings Wildlife T-Shirt features a realistic gray squirrel design, while the Squirrel Lover Vintage T-Shirt offers a more retro look.
### Wild Wings Wildlife T-Shirt Gray Squirrel Unisex Graphic Tee
A high quality 100% cotton tee with a front-only print of a gray squirrel. Hand made and unique.Check Price and Availability
### Squirrel Lover Vintage T-Shirt
A classic vintage-style shirt perfect for anyone who enjoys watching squirrels.Check Price and Availability
Visit ourt-shirt collectionfor more options.
### 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
Frequently Asked Questions
**Do squirrels in New Jersey carry diseases?** Squirrels can carry ticks and fleas, but transmission of serious diseases to humans is very rare. Avoid handling them.
**What do squirrels eat in New Jersey?** They mainly eat nuts, acorns, seeds, fruits, and sometimes bird eggs. In suburbs, bird feeders are a common food source.
**Are there albino or black squirrels in New Jersey?** Yes, black morphs of the eastern gray squirrel occur locally, especially in northern parts of the state. Albino and white squirrels are very rare but reported.
**How can I keep squirrels out of my bird feeder?** Use baffles, weight-sensitive feeders, or choose safflower seed which squirrels tend to avoid. Check ourwildlife control tipsfor more advice.
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