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

1. Are there squirrels in Virginia?

Yes, squirrels thrive throughout Virginia in diverse habitats. The eastern gray squirrel is found in every county, favoring mixed hardwood forests with oak, hickory, and beech trees. Fox squirrels prefer open woodlands and forest edges, especially in the Piedmont and Coastal Plain regions. The southern flying squirrel is nocturnal and lives in mature forests with dead snags for nesting cavities. Suburban yards and city parks also host healthy populations, particularly where bird feeders are present. Virginia's squirrel range extends from the highest elevations of the Appalachian Mountains down to sea-level coastal forests, making it one of the most squirrel-rich states on the East Coast.

2. What types of squirrels live in Virginia?

Virginia is home to three primary squirrel species. The eastern gray squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) is the most abundant and widespread, recognizable by its silvery-gray back and white underside. Fox squirrels (Sciurus niger) are larger and less common, found mainly in the southeastern coastal plain where pine and oak open woodlands dominate. Southern flying squirrels (Glaucomys volans) are small, nocturnal gliders found in mature deciduous and mixed forests throughout the state. Less common visitors include the fox squirrel variant known as the black phase, which appears dark gray or black instead of rusty orange. Each species has specific habitat requirements and seasonal patterns that affect your chances of spotting them.

3. Where are squirrels most likely in Virginia?

Squirrels thrive in Virginia's diverse habitats. The eastern gray squirrel is found in every county, favoring mixed hardwood forests with oak, hickory, and beech trees. Fox squirrels prefer open woodlands and forest edges, especially in the Piedmont and Coastal Plain. The southern flying squirrel is nocturnal and lives in mature forests with dead snags for nesting. Suburban yards and city parks also host useful populations, particularly where bird feeders are present. Regional hot spots include Grayson Highlands State Park in the southwest mountains, Pocahontas State Park near Richmond, and the Dismal Swamp area in the southeast coast. See ourstate wildlife pagefor the next step.

4. When is the best time to see squirrels in Virginia?

Squirrels are most active during early morning and late afternoon, especially in the first few hours after sunrise. In Virginia, peak activity occurs in fall (September through November) when they gather acorns and hickory nuts for winter storage. Spring (March to May) is also excellent as they forage for new growth and build leafy dreys. Summer midday heat drives squirrels high into tree canopies where they rest in the cooler shade. Winter activity is reduced but still visible on mild days, and you can spot them using cached nuts when the ground thaws. Time your visits to coincide with peak foraging hours and seasons for the highest likelihood of observation.

5. What tracks, signs, or clues can help identify squirrel activity?

Look for bounding tracks in soft soil or snow: four small toes on front feet and five on the hind feet, with distinctive stride patterns showing paired prints. Chewed acorn caps scattered under oaks are a clear sign of feeding activity. You might also find stripped pinecone scales, bark damage on young trees where they strip the inner layer for nesting material, or piles of nutshell fragments at the base of trees. Leaf nests (dreys) high in tree forks become visible after leaves fall in autumn. Listen for sharp barks and scolding calls when you approach their territory. Mid-winter snowfall makes tracking easiest as prints remain crisp in white powder for hours. See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.

6. How can you distinguish eastern gray squirrels from fox squirrels?

Eastern gray squirrels are smaller at 14-21 inches total length with a silvery gray back and pure white belly. Fox squirrels are noticeably larger at 22-27 inches with a rusty orange or buff-colored belly and sometimes mixed gray-brown fur on the back and sides. In Virginia, fox squirrels are most common in the southeastern coastal plain, while gray squirrels dominate everywhere else. Flying squirrels are much smaller at 8-10 inches with a gliding membrane (patagium) that stretches between front and hind limbs when they leap. Fox squirrel ear tufts tend to be less prominent than gray squirrels, especially outside the winter season. Size difference is often your first clue: if it looks oversized for a gray squirrel, it is likely a fox squirrel.

7. What common squirrel behaviors should you watch for?

Squirrels spend much of their day foraging on the ground, then quickly climbing trees when startled, using their sharp claws for traction. In fall, watch them bury nuts in scattered caches across their territory, often returning to them months later with remarkable accuracy. Mating chases are frantic in late winter and early summer, with males pursuing females in spiraling tree chases. You may see them sprawled flat on branches on hot days (splooting) to maximize skin contact and cool off through the bark. Young squirrels leave the nest in late spring and often appear clumsy as they learn to jump, climb, and judge distances. Winter fluffing of the tail acts as both insulation and a visual signal to other squirrels. Territorial chattering and foot stomping indicate defensive behavior.

8. Are squirrels protected in Virginia?

Yes, squirrels in Virginia receive protection under state wildlife law. Eastern gray squirrels and fox squirrels are classified as game animals with regulated hunting seasons (typically September-early February). Southern flying squirrels are protected year-round and cannot be hunted. It is illegal to possess native squirrels without a permit; they are wild animals requiring specialized care. Virginia law prohibits destructive trapping or poisoning of squirrels on your property. If you have a persistent squirrel problem, contact Virginia's Department of Wildlife Resources for legal relocation options. Penalties for violating squirrel protection laws include fines and possible criminal charges.

6. Squirrel-themed gear for your next outing

After a day of squirrel spotting, show your appreciation with apparel from Easy Street Markets. The **Wild Wings Wildlife T-Shirt Gray Squirrel Unisex Graphic Tee** features a detailed gray squirrel print. For a vintage look, try the **Squirrel Lover Vintage T-Shirt**. These shirts are perfect for park walks or casual wear.

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See ourCompare wildlife shirtsfor the next step.

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9. Explore more Virginia wildlife

Beyond squirrels, Virginia is home to white-tailed deer, red foxes, and great blue herons. For more spotting tips, check out our guides on/animals/deerand/animals/fox. And if you want to compare squirrel sightings across states, visit/animals/squirrelfor a national overview.

10. Frequently asked questions about squirrels in Virginia

**Can you keep a squirrel as a pet in Virginia?** No, it is illegal to possess native squirrels without a permit. They are wild animals and require specialized care.

**What do squirrels eat in Virginia?** They primarily eat acorns, hickory nuts, walnuts, and seeds. They also eat insects, fungi, and occasionally bird eggs.

**Do squirrels hibernate in Virginia?** Eastern gray squirrels do not truly hibernate. They remain active all winter but reduce activity during storms, relying on stored food.

**How can I attract squirrels to my yard?** Provide a consistent source of unsalted nuts and a water source. Planting oak or hickory trees will also encourage them.

**What is the difference between a gray squirrel and a fox squirrel?** Fox squirrels are larger, have a rusty belly, and are less common in Virginia outside the coastal plain. Gray squirrels are smaller with a white belly and are found statewide.

See ourtour planning ideasfor the next step.

11. Can you identify flying squirrels by their gliding behavior?

Southern flying squirrels are unique for their ability to glide between trees using a thin membrane (patagium) stretched between their limbs. When they leap from a high branch, they extend their limbs and flatten their body, creating an airfoil shape that allows them to glide up to 100 feet while descending. Unlike the other two species, flying squirrels are strictly nocturnal and rarely seen during daylight. If you hear scratching in your attic at night or see small droppings that are round and smaller than gray squirrel droppings, flying squirrels may be present. Using a thermal camera after dark can reveal their nighttime activity on tree trunks. The membrane makes them unmistakable once observed, even from a distance.