Squirrels in Vermont: Identification Guide and Where to Start Looking
Yes, Vermont is home to several squirrel species. The most common are the Eastern Gray Squirrel, Red Squirrel, and Northern Flying Squirrel. Focus on habitat and size to tell them apart. Start checking woodlots and suburban parks for quick results.
Yes, Vermont is home to several squirrel species. The most common are the Eastern Gray Squirrel, Red Squirrel, and Northern Flying Squirrel. Focus on habitat and size to tell them apart. Start checking woodlots and suburban parks for quick results.
1. What squirrel species live in Vermont?
Vermont hosts three main squirrel species: Eastern Gray Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis), Red Squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus), and Northern Flying Squirrel (Glaucomys sabrinus). The Eastern Chipmunk, though often mistaken for a squirrel, is a separate ground-dwelling rodent. Gray squirrels dominate in towns and deciduous forests, while reds prefer conifers. Flying squirrels are strictly nocturnal and rarely seen.
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2. How can I tell gray squirrels and red squirrels apart at a glance?
Size is the quickest clue. Eastern Gray Squirrels are larger (17-20 inches including tail) with a bushy, salt-and-pepper tail and white belly. Red Squirrels are much smaller (11-14 inches) with a reddish coat, white eye ring, and a thinner tail. In winter, grays can look frosty; reds maintain a warmer tone. If you see a squirrel with tufted ears, it's likely a red squirrel in winter.
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3. Where in Vermont am I most likely to see squirrels?
Eastern Gray Squirrels are common in suburban yards, parks, and mixed hardwood forests around Burlington, Montpelier, and along the Champlain Valley. Red Squirrels favor spruce-fir forests at higher elevations like the Green Mountains. Northern Flying Squirrels are found in mature hardwood-conifer forests statewide, but you'll need a spotlight and patience to spot them.
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4. What is the best time of year for squirrel spotting?
Fall (September through November) is prime squirrel viewing. Both grays and reds are busy caching nuts and seeds, making them active and visible during daylight. Early morning (dawn to 9 AM) and late afternoon (3 PM to dusk) offer the best odds. In winter, look for red squirrels on sunny days; grays may stay hidden during storms.
5. What field marks separate the Northern Flying Squirrel from other species?
Northern Flying Squirrels have a patagium (skin flap) that connects wrist to ankle, visible when they glide. They are smaller than grays but similar in size to reds, with large dark eyes, a flattened tail, and a grayish-brown coat. The belly is white with a slight yellowish tinge. You'll rarely see them on the ground; look for gliding silhouettes at dusk in old-growth stands.
6. How can I confirm a squirrel sighting using tracks or sign?
Squirrel tracks show four toes on the front feet and five on the hind, with a distinctive bounding pattern. Gray squirrel tracks are larger (about 1 inch front foot) while reds are smaller. Look for chewed pine cones (red squirrels leave neat spiral strips), gnawed acorns, and leaf nests (dreys) in branch forks. Feeding sign on black walnuts often points to grays.
7. What about the Eastern Chipmunk - is it a squirrel?
Chipmunks are ground squirrels, but in Vermont they are often confused with tree squirrels. They are much smaller (8-10 inches including tail), have five dark stripes on the back, and a shorter, less bushy tail. Chipmunks live in burrows and are most active in summer. They are not tree squirrels, but observing behavior (ground vs. arboreal) quickly separates them.
8. Where can I find squirrel-focused gear to enjoy my sightings?
Once you've identified a squirrel, you might want to show off your find. Easy Street Markets offers a range of wildlife-themed apparel. For a simple nod to your sighting, the**Wild Wings Wildlife T-Shirt Gray Squirrel**features a detailed gray squirrel design on 100% cotton. If you prefer a vintage look, the**Squirrel Lover Vintage T-Shirt**is a casual option. Both are perfect for field trips and backyard watching.Check out our full squirrel shirt collection.
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9. Frequently asked questions about Vermont squirrels
**Are there black squirrels in Vermont?** Yes, black morph Eastern Gray Squirrels occur in some areas, especially around Burlington. They are the same species. **Do flying squirrels hibernate?** No, but they become less active in winter and may share nests to stay warm. **What is the best bait for squirrel watching?** Sunflower seeds and peanuts work well. **Can I feed squirrels in my backyard?** Yes, but use a sturdy feeder to discourage raccoons.
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