Squirrels in West Virginia: Where to Look and What Signs to Watch For
Yes, squirrels are widespread across West Virginia. For the best chance, head to mixed hardwood forests in the Monongahela National Forest or any state park with mature oaks and hickories. Early morning and late afternoon offer the most activity. Begin by looking for leaf nests high in the trees. These agile climbers are a common sight in both the deep woods and suburban areas of the Mountain State.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated July 2, 2026.
- 7
- species recorded
- April, May, June
- peak months
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
Yes, squirrels are widespread across West Virginia. For the best chance, head to mixed hardwood forests in the Monongahela National Forest or any state park with mature oaks and hickories. Early morning and late afternoon offer the most activity. Begin by looking for leaf nests high in the trees. These agile climbers are a common sight in both the deep woods and suburban areas of the Mountain State.
Where Are Squirrels Most Likely in West Virginia?
Squirrels thrive in West Virginia's mixed hardwood forests, especially where oak, hickory, and beech trees are common. State parks like Blackwater Falls and the Monongahela National Forest have reliable populations. They also adapt well to suburban yards and city parks. For detailed identification tips, visit ourSquirrel ID guide.
In West Virginia, 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 diurnal, with peak activity just after sunrise and again in the late afternoon. During hot midday hours they rest in shade. In winter, they may shift activity to warmer midday periods. Plan your outings around dawn or dusk for the best odds. Learn more about West Virginia's wildlife timing on ourstate pageto plan your trip effectively.
What Signs Do Squirrels Leave Behind?
Look for small, hand like tracks with four toes on the front feet and five on the hind. Gnawed nutshells, stripped pine cones, and leaf nests in tree forks are clear evidence. You may also hear sharp barking calls or rustling in the leaves. Tracks and nests are reliable clues even when the animals are hidden from view in the canopy.
How to Spot Squirrels in Different Seasons?
Spring and summer bring constant foraging, making squirrels easy to spot. Fall is the peak season as they busily collect and store nuts for the winter. In winter, they are less active but appear on warmer days, especially around midday. The best overall season for sightings is fall, when forests are full of movement and the leaves are changing color.
Best Places in West Virginia for Squirrel Spotting?
Monongahela National Forest offers vast hardwood tracts. Blackwater Falls State Park, Seneca Rocks, and the woods around Harpers Ferry also hold healthy squirrel populations. These same forests are prime habitat forwhite tailed deerandred tailed hawks, adding to your wildlife experience. Look for areas with mature trees and plenty of food sources.
What Squirrel Species Live in West Virginia?
The eastern gray squirrel is the most common species. You may also encounter the larger fox squirrel, the smaller red squirrel, and the nocturnal southern flying squirrel. Listen for the distinct calls of each. For a full species list, check oursquirrel hubwhich covers all the varieties found in the state.
Show Your Squirrel Spotting Pride with T-Shirts
After a day in the field, wear your interest with these squirrel themed shirts.
Wild Wings Wildlife T-Shirt Gray Squirrel Unisex Graphic Tee For Men & Women
A realistic gray squirrel print on 100% cotton. Great for casual wear or as a conversation starter.Check Price and Availability
Squirrel Lover Vintage T-Shirt
A classic retro design for squirrel fans. Affordable and soft.Check Price and Availability
Squirrel Shirt. Squirrel Gift. Squirrel Clothing. Funny Squirrel Shirt.
A playful option with a humorous take. Perfect for everyday wear.Check Price and Availability
Browse more designs at ourwildlife t-shirt collection.
Are there flying squirrels in West Virginia?
Yes, the southern flying squirrel is present in West Virginia but is strictly nocturnal. Look for them at dusk in mature forests or listen for soft chirps high in the trees. They do not actually fly but glide between trees using a special membrane. They are much smaller than gray squirrels and have large, dark eyes for night vision.
What do squirrels eat in West Virginia forests?
Squirrels in West Virginia have a diverse diet centered around nuts like acorns, hickory nuts, and walnuts. They also eat berries, fungi, and occasionally bird eggs or insects. In the spring, they may feed on the buds and bark of trees. Their habit of burying nuts helps to replant the forests they live in, making them vital for the ecosystem.
Gear and field guides
Frequently asked questions
Where Are Squirrels Most Likely in West Virginia?+
Squirrels thrive in West Virginia's mixed hardwood forests, especially where oak, hickory, and beech trees are common. State parks like Blackwater Falls and the Monongahela National Forest have reliable populations. They also adapt well to suburban yards and city parks. For detailed identification tips, visit ourSquirrel ID guide. In West Virginia, 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 diurnal, with peak activity just after sunrise and again in the late afternoon. During hot midday hours they rest in shade. In winter, they may shift activity to warmer midday periods. Plan your outings around dawn or dusk for the best odds. Learn more about West Virginia's wildlife timing on ourstate pageto plan your trip effectively.
What Signs Do Squirrels Leave Behind?+
Look for small, hand like tracks with four toes on the front feet and five on the hind. Gnawed nutshells, stripped pine cones, and leaf nests in tree forks are clear evidence. You may also hear sharp barking calls or rustling in the leaves. Tracks and nests are reliable clues even when the animals are hidden from view in the canopy.
How to Spot Squirrels in Different Seasons?+
Spring and summer bring constant foraging, making squirrels easy to spot. Fall is the peak season as they busily collect and store nuts for the winter. In winter, they are less active but appear on warmer days, especially around midday. The best overall season for sightings is fall, when forests are full of movement and the leaves are changing color.
Best Places in West Virginia for Squirrel Spotting?+
Monongahela National Forest offers vast hardwood tracts. Blackwater Falls State Park, Seneca Rocks, and the woods around Harpers Ferry also hold healthy squirrel populations. These same forests are prime habitat forwhite tailed deerandred tailed hawks, adding to your wildlife experience. Look for areas with mature trees and plenty of food sources.
What Squirrel Species Live in West Virginia?+
The eastern gray squirrel is the most common species. You may also encounter the larger fox squirrel, the smaller red squirrel, and the nocturnal southern flying squirrel. Listen for the distinct calls of each. For a full species list, check oursquirrel hubwhich covers all the varieties found in the state.
Are there flying squirrels in West Virginia?+
Yes, the southern flying squirrel is present in West Virginia but is strictly nocturnal. Look for them at dusk in mature forests or listen for soft chirps high in the trees. They do not actually fly but glide between trees using a special membrane. They are much smaller than gray squirrels and have large, dark eyes for night vision.
What do squirrels eat in West Virginia forests?+
Squirrels in West Virginia have a diverse diet centered around nuts like acorns, hickory nuts, and walnuts. They also eat berries, fungi, and occasionally bird eggs or insects. In the spring, they may feed on the buds and bark of trees. Their habit of burying nuts helps to replant the forests they live in, making them vital for the ecosystem.
Keep exploring
More places to see squirrel
More wildlife in West Virginia