How to Identify the Top 10 Squirrels in North America

I recently took a trip to the picturesque state of Washington to visit my longtime friend Steph, who just moved there as she steps into retirement. Steph and I go way back – we met over 20 years ago in dental hygiene school. During my visit, I discovered she is also a squirrel lover, just like me! One afternoon, we found ourselves glued to her glass patio door, watching a real-life episode of “Squirrels in North America.” As we observed the antics of these furry stars, I tried to point out the differences between the Eastern Gray Squirrel and the Douglas Squirrel.

She was puzzled that I could tell them apart so easily. Realizing that many squirrel enthusiasts might face the same challenge, I decided to create this guide to help you easily identify and appreciate the unique characteristics of the various squirrel species in North America. So, let’s embark on this fun tour of Squirrels in North America!

1. Eastern Gray Squirrel 

Let’s kick off our tour with the superstar of the squirrel world – the Eastern Gray Squirrel! These little guys are practically everywhere in the Eastern United States and Canada. And guess what? They’ve even made their way to some Western cities like Seattle and San Francisco and hopped across the pond to Europe and Australia. Talk about world travelers!

The Eastern Gray Squirrel is easy to spot with its gray body and white belly, often sprinkled with rusty patches. But did you know there are two other cool variations? In Ontario, you might bump into the melanistic form, which is completely black. And down in Louisiana, you could find the rare dark brown form. Squirrel spotting just got a lot more exciting!

2. Fox Squirrel 

Fox Squirrels, which are some of the largest and most fascinating tree squirrels in North America. There are two main types we’ll focus on: the Eastern Fox Squirrel and the Western Fox Squirrel.

2a. Eastern Fox Squirrel

The Eastern Fox Squirrel is a common sight in the Eastern United States. These squirrels are generally larger than the more common gray squirrels, typically weighing between 1 to 2.5 pounds and measuring 19 to 29 inches in length, including their bushy tail, which accounts for about half of their total length. Their fur is usually a mix of gray and orange, giving them a distinctive appearance.

Compared to gray squirrels, Eastern Fox Squirrels have thicker, shorter necks and smaller, more rounded ears. They are highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of environments, including forests, suburban areas, and even urban settings​

2b. Western Fox Squirrel

The Western Fox Squirrel inhabits the Western United States, particularly in California and Oregon. While they are similar in size to the Eastern Fox Squirrel, Western Fox Squirrels generally have a more uniform grayish-brown coat with a rusty-orange belly. Their typical size ranges from 17.7 to 27.6 inches in length, including the tail, and they weigh between 1.1 to 2.2 pounds.

These squirrels are highly adaptable and can thrive in various habitats, from woodlands to city parks. Their range overlaps with other squirrel species, but their larger size and distinctive coloring make them easy to spot​.

2c. Delmarva Fox Squirrel

But wait, there’s more! Meet the Delmarva Fox Squirrel, a special subspecies primarily found on the Delmarva Peninsula in Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia. These squirrels are larger and paler than the common Eastern Gray Squirrel, lacking the typical rusty spots. In the southern states, fox squirrels may also have orange bellies or even black faces, each variety bringing its own charm to squirrel watching.

Delmarva Fox Squirrels, or DFS for short, are among the largest tree squirrels in North America. They can grow up to 30 inches in length, with about half of that being their big, fluffy tail, and weigh up to 3 pounds. Compared to gray squirrels, they have thicker, shorter necks and smaller, rounder ears​.

Squirrels of the United States

3. Red-Bellied Squirrel 

Now, let’s head down to the sunny Florida Keys to meet the Red-Bellied Squirrel. This species isn’t native to North America; it’s an adventurous import from Central America. You’ll only find them on Elliot Key, where they reign supreme as the island’s sole squirrel residents. If you spot a squirrel here, you’ve hit the jackpot – it’s definitely a Red-Bellied Squirrel!

4. Abert’s Squirrel (Tassel-Eared Squirrel)

Ready for some Southwestern charm? Meet the Tassel-Eared Squirrel, also known as the Abert’s Squirrel or the Kaibab Squirrel, depending on the subspecies. These cuties can be identified by the adorable tufts of fur on their ears. They’re like the fashionistas of the squirrel world!

In Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, Colorado, and even parts of Mexico, you’ll find these tufted beauties. The Abert’s Squirrel variety lives south of the Grand Canyon, while the Kaibab Squirrel hangs out to the north. The Kaibab Squirrel even sports a chic melanistic form in the northern part of its range. Talk about style!

5. Mexican Fox Squirrel

Our next stop takes us to the rugged Chiricahua Mountains in Southeastern Arizona, where we meet the Mexican Fox Squirrel and also known as the Apache Fox Squirrel. This species looks a lot like its cousin, the Eastern Fox Squirrel, but they never cross paths, making identification a breeze.

Imagine exploring the mountainous terrain and spotting one of these charming creatures with their distinctive dark brown fur and orange belly. Their range extends south into Mexico, adding an international flair to our squirrel adventure!

6. Western Gray Squirrel 

Heading to the West Coast, we encounter the elegant Western Gray Squirrel. In some places, this species has also been known as the silver-gray squirrel, the California gray squirrel, the Oregon gray squirrel, the Columbian gray squirrel and the banner-tail. 

Found in the mountainous regions along the western coast of the United States, these squirrels are easy to recognize. They resemble the Eastern Gray Squirrel but with one key difference – no rusty patches! Their sleek gray fur and majestic bushy tails make them a sight to behold as they gracefully navigate the trees in their forested homes.

7. Arizona Gray Squirrel 

Our squirrel tour wouldn’t be complete without a stop in the sunny state of Arizona to meet the Arizona Gray Squirrel. This species is unique to its range and is the only gray tree squirrel in the region. With its gray body and a distinctive rusty patch on its back and tail, the Arizona Gray Squirrel is a charming resident of the state’s woodlands.

Whether you’re hiking in the mountains or exploring the desert, keep an eye out for these delightful critters. They add a touch of whimsy to the Arizona landscape!

8. Red Squirrel 

Now, let’s head north to meet the feisty Red Squirrel. These little dynamos are found all over Canada, Alaska, the northern United States, and even into the Appalachian and Rocky Mountains. True to their name, they sport a vibrant red coat.

But don’t let their size fool you – they are extremely territorial and vocal! Their chattering sounds might remind you of bird calls, but it’s just them letting you know whose turf you’re on. In the southwestern regions, you might encounter the spruce squirrel, a darker brown version of the Red Squirrel. These tiny guardians of the forest are always ready to defend their territory.

9. Douglas Squirrel 

Staying on the West Coast, let’s meet the Douglas’s Squirrel. These squirrels are similar in size and temperament to the Red Squirrel but have a dark brown body with an orange belly. Found in the Pacific Northwest and Northern California, they add a dash of color to the forest canopy.

These squirrels are just as territorial as their red cousins, so if you hear some high-pitched chattering while hiking through the woods, you know a Douglas’s Squirrel is nearby, standing guard.

10. Flying Squirrels 

Our tour wouldn’t be complete without introducing the acrobats of the squirrel world – the Flying Squirrels! These fascinating creatures glide from tree to tree, thanks to a special membrane between their front and back legs. There are two main species we’ll focus on: the Northern Flying Squirrel and the Southern Flying Squirrel.

Both the Northern and Southern Flying Squirrels have unique adaptations that make them stand out. Their nocturnal nature means they are often only visible at night, adding an element of mystery and challenge to spotting them. In areas where their ranges overlap, like the Appalachian region and parts of Southern Canada, these aerial acrobats are a captivating part of North America’s wildlife.

10a. Northern Flying Squirrel

Found across Canada, Alaska, the northern United States, and even in the Appalachian and Rocky Mountains, the Northern Flying Squirrel is known for its creamy brown fur. These nocturnal flyers bring a touch of magic to the night forest as they glide silently through the trees.

A special treat for those lucky enough to spot them is the Humboldt’s Flying Squirrel, a suspected new species located in the Pacific Northwest and Northern California. Whether gliding silently or peering out with their big, dark eyes, these squirrels are a fascinating sight. Let us know if you catch a glimpse of one and a photo!

10b. Southern Flying Squirrel 

Our final stop brings us to the Southern Flying Squirrel, a charming counterpart to the Northern variety. Slightly smaller in size, with grayish-brown fur, these squirrels are found in the eastern United States and southeastern Canada.

Their nocturnal habits make them tricky to spot, but their gliding prowess is mesmerizing if you’re fortunate enough to catch them in action. Imagine these little daredevils leaping from tree to tree, navigating the night with grace and agility!

Squirrels in North America Wrap-Up

What a delightful journey we’ve had exploring the diverse and charming squirrels of North America! From the familiar Eastern Gray Squirrel to the acrobatic Flying Squirrels, each species brings its own unique charm and characteristics to our forests and neighborhoods. I hope this guide has helped you to appreciate and identify these wonderful creatures.

If you enjoyed this guide, let us know by leaving a comment! And don’t stop here; dive into our guide on city squirrels to discover how these clever critters have adapted to city life.