Squirrels in New York: where to look and what signs to watch for
Squirrels do show up in New York, and the best first step is matching habitat, timing, and recent local conditions. Start with the state wildlife hub, compare likely cover and movement windows, use the animal facts page for field marks, and plan one realistic route before heading out.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated June 28, 2026.
Southern Flying Squirrel 路 Hila Taylor CC BY
Eastern Gray Squirrel 路 Andrew Garn CC BY
Eastern Gray Squirrel 路 eml23 CC BY
- 7
- species recorded
- 39,843
- GBIF records
- April, May, September
- peak months
Verified species, source iNaturalist
7 types of squirrels recorded in New York
7 squirrel species have a verified observation record in New York across the squirrel family (Sciuridae), each with at least 10 confirmed sightings. The full list, ranked by how often each is recorded, is below.
1
2
3
4- 5
6
7
Counts from verified iNaturalist observations. Photos by iNaturalist observers, reused under the licence each observer chose.
Real sighting data, source iNaturalist
42,378 verified observations on iNaturalist of squirrel have been recorded in New York, most often in April, May, September.
When squirrel are recorded in New York
Squirrels do show up in New York, and the best first step is matching habitat, timing, and recent local conditions. Start with the state wildlife hub, compare likely cover and movement windows, use the animal facts page for field marks, and plan one realistic route before heading out.
Where are squirrels most likely found in New York?
Eastern gray squirrels thrive in hardwood forests with oaks, maples, and hickories. They are also abundant in urban parks and suburban neighborhoods. Red squirrels prefer coniferous forests in the Adirondacks and Catskills. Start by checking mature trees with nut-producing canopies. For a broader look at New York wildlife, visit ourNew York wildlife page.
In New York, squirrels sightings usually improve when you slow down and match your first stop to where the animal is most likely in the state. Use thestate wildlife huband theroute guideto narrow your first area, then check access, weather, and distance before you settle in. A short walk with one clear viewing plan often beats covering too much ground, especially when habitat changes fast from open edges to brush, wetlands, timber, shoreline, or neighborhood cover.
What time of day are squirrels most active?
Squirrels are crepuscular, with peak activity around dawn and late afternoon. On cool, overcast days they may remain active longer. In summer, they often rest during midday heat. Your best chances are early morning or just before dusk.
What tracks and signs do squirrels leave?
Look for clusters of gnawed nutshells under trees, stripped pine cones, and small dug holes where they bury food. Tracks show four toes on front feet and five on back, often in a bounding pattern. Dreys (leaf nests) high in tree forks are a clear sign of habitation. For more on identifying squirrel signs, see oursquirrel identification hub.
See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.
What types of squirrels live in New York?
The eastern gray squirrel (gray or black morph) is most common statewide. Red squirrels are smaller, reddish-brown with white belly, and favor conifers. The northern flying squirrel is nocturnal and silvery-gray, rarely seen. Fox squirrels are absent in most of New York but occur in the western part. Check ear tufts and tail shape for quick ID.
How do squirrels behave in New York's seasons?
In fall, gray squirrels are busy caching acorns and hickory nuts. Winter activity is reduced but they don't fully hibernate; look for them on mild days near bird feeders. Spring brings breeding and new litters. Summer is active but they retreat during heat. Listen for alarm barks and chattering to locate them.
What should you look for when spotting squirrels?
Focus on movement in tree branches and leaf litter. Gray squirrels have a bushy tail that flicks when agitated. Red squirrels are more vocal and aggressive, often seen chasing each other. Bring binoculars for detailed viewing. Note that hawks and owls prey on squirrels, so keep an eye on open areas near tree edges. Learn more about their predators on ourhawks page.
Show off your squirrel sightings with squirrel-themed gear
Once you've spotted a few squirrels, celebrate your finds with quality gear. Our squirrel t-shirts let you wear your love for these busy foragers. Check out a few options below.
Wild Wings Wildlife T-Shirt Gray Squirrel
A unisex graphic tee featuring a realistic gray squirrel design. 100% cotton, front print only.Check Price and Availability
Squirrel Lover Vintage T-Shirt
Classic vintage-style shirt perfect for any squirrel fan.Check Price and Availability
Squirrel Shirt. Squirrel Gift. #OS5686
Funny squirrel graphic with acorns and leaves. Makes a great gift.Check Price and Availability
Browse more options on oursquirrel t-shirts page.
Frequently asked questions about squirrels in New York
**Can you see black squirrels in New York?** Yes, black morphs of the eastern gray squirrel are common in some areas, especially around Buffalo and Rochester.
**Do squirrels in New York hibernate?** No, they remain active year-round, though they may stay in their nests during severe weather.
**What is the best time of year to see baby squirrels?** Spring (March to May) and late summer (August to September) are peak times for young squirrels leaving the nest.
**Where can I report a squirrel sighting in New York?** You can submit observations to iNaturalist or the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.
See ourtour planning ideasfor the next step.
Gear and field guides
Plan your trip
Best time to see squirrel in New York: April, May, September
See the month-by-month sighting calendar.
Plan your squirrel sighting in New York
39,843 verified squirrel records have been logged in New York, most recently in 2026. See the GBIF records.
Where to look in New York
- Appalachian National Scenic Trail 路 Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching 路 Find hotels
- Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail 路 Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching 路 Find hotels
- Chesapeake Bay 路 Wildlife Watching 路 Find hotels
- Fire Island National Seashore 路 Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching 路 Find hotels
- Martin Van Buren National Historic Site 路 Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching 路 Find hotels
- National Parks of New York Harbor 路 Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching 路 Find hotels
Frequently asked questions
What squirrel species live in New York?+
Eastern gray squirrels thrive in hardwood forests with oaks, maples, and hickories. They are also abundant in urban parks and suburban neighborhoods. Red squirrels prefer coniferous forests in the Adirondacks and Catskills. Start by checking mature trees with nut-producing canopies. For a broader look at New York wildlife, visit ourNew York wildlife page. In New York, squirrels sightings usually improve when you slow down and match your first stop to where the animal is most likely in the state. Use thestate wildlife huband theroute guideto narrow your first area, then check access, weather, and distance before you settle in. A short walk with one clear viewing plan often beats covering too much ground, especially when habitat changes fast from open edges to brush, wetlands, timber, shoreline, or neighborhood cover.
Where can you see squirrels in New York?+
Eastern gray squirrels thrive in hardwood forests with oaks, maples, and hickories. They are also abundant in urban parks and suburban neighborhoods. Red squirrels prefer coniferous forests in the Adirondacks and Catskills. Start by checking mature trees with nut-producing canopies. For a broader look at New York wildlife, visit ourNew York wildlife page. In New York, squirrels sightings usually improve when you slow down and match your first stop to where the animal is most likely in the state. Use thestate wildlife huband theroute guideto narrow your first area, then check access, weather, and distance before you settle in. A short walk with one clear viewing plan often beats covering too much ground, especially when habitat changes fast from open edges to brush, wetlands, timber, shoreline, or neighborhood cover.
When is the best time to see squirrels in New York?+
Eastern gray squirrels thrive in hardwood forests with oaks, maples, and hickories. They are also abundant in urban parks and suburban neighborhoods. Red squirrels prefer coniferous forests in the Adirondacks and Catskills. Start by checking mature trees with nut-producing canopies. For a broader look at New York wildlife, visit ourNew York wildlife page. In New York, squirrels sightings usually improve when you slow down and match your first stop to where the animal is most likely in the state. Use thestate wildlife huband theroute guideto narrow your first area, then check access, weather, and distance before you settle in. A short walk with one clear viewing plan often beats covering too much ground, especially when habitat changes fast from open edges to brush, wetlands, timber, shoreline, or neighborhood cover.
Keep exploring
More places to see squirrel
More wildlife in New York