Squirrels in West Virginia: Where to Look and What Signs to Watch For
Squirrels are common across West Virginia, from hardwood forests to suburban backyards. Look for them in oak-hickory stands and along wooded edges. The best odds are early morning and late afternoon, especially in fall when they gather nuts. Start by listening for rustling leaves and looking for chewed acorns.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated June 28, 2026.
Groundhog · sarah caitlin williams CC BY
Eastern Chipmunk · Clay Gibbons CC BY
Eastern Fox Squirrel · Matthew Gerke CC BY
- 7
- species recorded
- 2,978
- GBIF records
- April, May, June
- peak months
Yes, squirrels are in West Virginia. Next you'll want:
Verified species, source iNaturalist
6 types of squirrels recorded in West Virginia
6 squirrel species have a verified observation record in West Virginia across the squirrel family (Sciuridae), each with at least 10 confirmed sightings. The full list, ranked by how often each is recorded, is below.
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Plus 1 more recorded only rarely (fewer than 10 verified sightings). Counts from verified iNaturalist observations. Photos by iNaturalist observers, reused under the licence each observer chose.
Real sighting data, source iNaturalist
3,015 verified observations on iNaturalist of squirrel have been recorded in West Virginia, most often in April, May, June.
When squirrel are recorded in West Virginia
Squirrels are common across West Virginia, from hardwood forests to suburban backyards. Look for them in oak-hickory stands and along wooded edges. The best odds are early morning and late afternoon, especially in fall when they gather nuts. Start by listening for rustling leaves and looking for chewed acorns.
1. Where in West Virginia are squirrels most likely to be seen?
Squirrels thrive in the state’s extensive hardwood forests, particularly in the Allegheny and Cumberland plateaus. Look for them in oak-hickory forests, along forest edges, and near streams. They also adapt to city parks and residential areas with mature trees. The most reliable spots are in Monongahela National Forest and state parks like Blackwater Falls. For more on squirrel habitats, check out oursquirrel species overview.
2. When is the best time of day to spy squirrels?
Squirrels are most active during the early morning and late afternoon, especially when gathering food. On warm days they may also be active midday. Seasonal behavior peaks in fall as they cache nuts for winter. In spring, look for them chasing each other during mating season. Winter activity slows but they remain out on mild days. For more West Virginia wildlife timing, visit ourWest Virginia wildlife page.
3. What signs and tracks should a beginner look for?
Squirrel tracks are distinctive: four toes on front feet, five on hind, with a bounding pattern. Look for chewed acorns and pine cones, stripped bark, and leaf nests (dreys) high in tree forks. Listen for chattering and rustling leaves. Scratches on tree bark and small piles of nut shells are also good clues. These signs help you locate active squirrel areas.
See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.
4. Which squirrel species are found in West Virginia?
The most common are the eastern gray squirrel and the larger fox squirrel. The southern flying squirrel is also present but nocturnal. Gray squirrels are gray with white bellies, fox squirrels are reddish-gray with a broader face. Fox squirrels favor open woodlands while grays prefer denser forests. Distinguishing them is easier with practice.
5. How can you attract squirrels for better viewing?
Set up feeders with sunflower seeds, peanuts, or corn in a quiet area near trees. Provide a water source and avoid disturbing their nests. Patience is key; squirrels are wary but will become regular visitors if food is consistent. Place feeders where you can watch from a window without being seen.
6. What do squirrels eat and how do they affect the forest?
Squirrels mostly eat nuts, seeds, fruits, and fungi. They play a key role in forest regeneration by burying acorns that later sprout. They also spread tree seeds and serve as prey for hawks, owls, and foxes. Their gnawing can damage trees, but overall they benefit woodland health.
7. Where can you find squirrel-themed apparel and gifts?
After a great squirrel sighting, you might want to show your appreciation with a squirrel-themed shirt. Check out these options:
Wild Wings Wildlife T-Shirt Gray Squirrel Unisex Graphic Tee For Men & Women
Features a realistic gray squirrel design printed on high quality 100% cotton. Comfortable for everyday wear.Check Price and Availability
Squirrel Lover Vintage T-Shirt
A classic vintage-style tee for squirrel enthusiasts. Great casual look.Check Price and Availability
Squirrel Shirt. Squirrel Gift. Squirrel Clothing. Funny Squirrel Shirt. Squirrels Shirt. Squirrel Tshirt. Squirrel Lover Gift. #OS5686
A fun squirrel design that makes a great gift. Lightweight and comfortable.Check Price and Availability
Browse our fullsquirrel t-shirt collectionfor more designs.
8. Frequently Asked Questions about Squirrels in West Virginia
**Are squirrels in West Virginia active all year?** Yes, but they are less active in deep winter. They may stay in their nests during cold snaps.
**What is the best habitat for spotting fox squirrels?** Open woodlands with scattered oaks, especially in the Ohio River valley.
**Do flying squirrels really fly?** No, they glide using a membrane between front and hind legs. Look for them at dusk in mature forests.
**Can you squirrel hunt in West Virginia?** Yes, with a valid license. Season runs fall through winter. Check DNR regulations.
**What predators do squirrels have?** Common predators include hawks, owls, foxes, and snakes. Learn more abouthawks in West Virginiaandowls in West Virginia.
See ourtour planning ideasfor the next step.
Gear and field guides
Plan your trip
Best time to see squirrel in West Virginia: April, May, June
See the month-by-month sighting calendar.
Plan your squirrel sighting in West Virginia
2,978 verified squirrel records have been logged in West Virginia, most recently in 2026. See the GBIF records.
Where to look in West Virginia
- Appalachian National Scenic Trail · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Bluestone National Scenic River · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Chesapeake Bay · Wildlife Watching · Find hotels
- Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail · Wildlife Watching · Find hotels
- New River Gorge National Park & Preserve · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
Frequently asked questions
What squirrel species live in West Virginia?+
Squirrels thrive in the state’s extensive hardwood forests, particularly in the Allegheny and Cumberland plateaus. Look for them in oak-hickory forests, along forest edges, and near streams. They also adapt to city parks and residential areas with mature trees. The most reliable spots are in Monongahela National Forest and state parks like Blackwater Falls. For more on squirrel habitats, check out oursquirrel species overview.
Where can you see squirrels in West Virginia?+
Squirrels thrive in the state’s extensive hardwood forests, particularly in the Allegheny and Cumberland plateaus. Look for them in oak-hickory forests, along forest edges, and near streams. They also adapt to city parks and residential areas with mature trees. The most reliable spots are in Monongahela National Forest and state parks like Blackwater Falls. For more on squirrel habitats, check out oursquirrel species overview.
When is the best time to see squirrels in West Virginia?+
Squirrels thrive in the state’s extensive hardwood forests, particularly in the Allegheny and Cumberland plateaus. Look for them in oak-hickory forests, along forest edges, and near streams. They also adapt to city parks and residential areas with mature trees. The most reliable spots are in Monongahela National Forest and state parks like Blackwater Falls. For more on squirrel habitats, check out oursquirrel species overview.
Keep exploring
More places to see squirrel
More wildlife in West Virginia