Reproduction: Usually 3-5 naked, eyes closed young are born in the spring and again to a lesser extent in late summer. Young remain with the mother for about 3.5 months

Diet: Nuts, buds, berries, flowers, leaves and seeds

Species Information:

The grey squirrel is the most common species of squirrel found. The name is misleading in that members of this species can be grey, dark brown or black.

These clever creatures have adapted extremely well and thrive in cities throughout North America. They provide a spectacular show in acrobatics jumping from tree to tree and balancing on power lines. Although they can seek out attics and sheds, especially during the short birthing seasons, for the most part they create magnificent leaf nests in hardwood trees. Mothers will seek out alternate shelter during the spring since young, who are born helpless, furless and with their eyes closed are very vulnerable to predation from crows, blue jays and other animals. Attics provide a short-term safe haven until babies are mobile and active, at about 8 weeks.

Don’t Forget the Red The red squirrel is significantly smaller, less than half the size of the grey squirrel, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in attitude. This chatty and cheeky character can often be seen chasing larger squirrels and crows away from food. Red squirrels tend to inhabit areas with more conifer trees.