Squirrels in Washington: identification guide and where to start looking
Washington is home to several squirrel species, including the Western Gray, Eastern Gray, Douglas, and Northern Flying Squirrel. Most sightings occur near woodlands and parks. Start with the Douglas Squirrel in conifer forests or the Eastern Gray in urban areas.
Washington is home to several squirrel species, including the Western Gray, Eastern Gray, Douglas, and Northern Flying Squirrel. Most sightings occur near woodlands and parks. Start with the Douglas Squirrel in conifer forests or the Eastern Gray in urban areas.
1. What types of squirrels are found in Washington?
Washington hosts four main species: the Western Gray Squirrel (native, large, gray with a bushy tail), the Eastern Gray Squirrel (introduced, common in cities), the Douglas Squirrel (small, rust-colored belly, calls loudly), and the Northern Flying Squirrel (nocturnal, glides between trees). A fifth, the Red Squirrel, is rare in eastern Washington but possible. For a full overview, check oursquirrel hub.
2. How can you tell apart the Western Gray and Eastern Gray Squirrels?
The Western Gray is larger (18-24 inches including tail) and has a pure white belly and feet. The Eastern Gray is smaller (16-20 inches) and often has a brownish or reddish wash on its back. Eastern Grays more commonly have black color morphs in urban areas like Seattle. Both share gray upperparts, but the Western Gray's tail is fluffier and more silver-tipped. They rarely overlap; Western Grays stick to oak woodlands west of the Cascades, while Eastern Grays dominate lowland cities.
3. What field marks separate the Douglas Squirrel from other small tree squirrels?
The Douglas Squirrel is small (10-14 inches) with a rusty-red belly and a narrow, dark tail edged with white. It has a distinct white eye ring and a loud, scolding call. Unlike the Northern Flying Squirrel, it lacks a gliding membrane and is active by day. It can be confused with the Red Squirrel, but the Douglas has a grayer back and no reddish tail. You'll most likely see it in conifer forests, especially around Douglas fir or spruce.
See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.
4. Where in Washington are you most likely to see each species?
Start your search in the following areas: - **Eastern Gray Squirrel**: Urban parks in Seattle, Tacoma, and Spokane. They are common on the University of Washington campus. - **Western Gray Squirrel**: Oak woodlands in Klickitat, Yakima, and Skamania counties. Look in the Klickitat Wildlife Area. - **Douglas Squirrel**: Coniferous forests from the Cascades west to the coast, such as Olympic National Park and Mount Rainier. - **Northern Flying Squirrel**: Mature forests with snags, mostly west of the Cascades. Best found by listening for their high-pitched squeaks at dusk. For detailed species accounts, visit ourWashington wildlife page.
5. When is the best time to spot squirrels in Washington?
Most tree squirrels are active year-round, but your best odds are during early morning and late afternoon. In fall (September to November), squirrels are busy caching food and are more visible. Winter is also good for Douglas Squirrels, as they remain active and their calls carry in the quiet air. Flying squirrels are easier to see in spring and summer when they forage at dusk. Avoid midday heat in summer, when they rest.
6. What common lookalikes could you confuse with Washington squirrels?
The Eastern Gray Squirrel and the Western Gray Squirrel are the trickiest pair. Focus on belly color: white on Western, often brownish on Eastern. The Douglas Squirrel and Red Squirrel look similar; the Douglas has a rusty belly and a narrower tail. Chipmunks are smaller and striped, but sometimes mistaken for baby squirrels. Ground squirrels, like the Columbian Ground Squirrel, have shorter tails and live in open meadows, not trees. For a deeper dive into lookalike separation, see oursquirrel identification guide.
7. Ready to show your squirrel spotting pride? Check these wildlife tees
After a day of identifying squirrels, celebrate with a shirt that matches your finds. These designs capture the charm of Washington's tree climbers.
### Wild Wings Wildlife T-Shirt Gray Squirrel Unisex Graphic Tee For Men & Women
A soft 100% cotton tee featuring a detailed gray squirrel illustration. Perfect for field trips or casual wear. The print is front-only and made to last.Check Price and Availability
### Squirrel Lover Vintage T-Shirt
A retro style tee for those who can't get enough of these bushy-tailed animals. Budget-friendly and comfy for everyday wear.Check Price and Availability
### Squirrel Shirt. Squirrel Gift. Funny Squirrel Shirt. Squirrels Shirt.
A playful option with a humorous squirrel design. Great for gifting or adding to your own collection.Check Price and Availability
Browse our full selection ofsquirrel t-shirtsto find your favorite.
8. FAQ: Are there invasive squirrels in Washington?
The Eastern Gray Squirrel is introduced and considered invasive in some areas, competing with the native Western Gray. Control efforts exist in parts of Klickitat County. Another common question: do flying squirrels actually fly? No, they glide using a membrane between their front and back legs, up to 150 feet. And yes, squirrels are active all year, so you can spot them in any season with the right timing.
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