Texas is home to a wide variety of squirrel species, each with its own unique characteristics and behaviors. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of squirrels that can be found throughout the state, including their physical characteristics, habitat preferences, and other interesting facts.
There are several species of squirrels that can be found in Texas, including the gray squirrel, fox squirrel, red squirrel, Western gray squirrel, rock squirrel, and chipmunk.
These squirrels vary in size, color, and habitat preferences, and are an important part of the state’s ecosystem.
1.Gray Squirrels
Gray squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis) are common throughout Texas and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, parks, and residential areas. They are relatively large, with a body length of around 20 inches and a bushy tail that can be up to a foot long. Gray squirrels are generally gray in color, but may also appear brown or reddish.
Gray squirrels are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of plant materials, including nuts, seeds, and fruit, as well as insects, birds’ eggs, and even small reptiles and mammals. They are known for their ability to remember the locations of food caches and to retrieve these stores throughout the winter.
Gray squirrels are active during the day and are often seen foraging for food on the ground or in trees. They are good climbers and are skilled at adapting to different environments.
2.Fox Squirrels
Fox squirrels (Sciurus niger) are similar in size to gray squirrels, but are distinguished by their reddish-orange fur and large, bushy tails. They are native to Texas and can be found in a variety of habitats, including deciduous forests, parks, and residential areas.
Fox squirrels are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of plant materials, such as nuts, seeds, and fruit, as well as insects and other small animals. They are known for their habit of gathering and storing food for the winter and are active during the day.
3.Red Squirrels
Red squirrels (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus) are smaller than gray and fox squirrels, with a body length of around 8-10 inches and a tail that is around 6 inches long. As their name suggests, they are reddish in color, with a dark stripe running down their back.
Red squirrels are native to the eastern United States, including Texas, and are found in coniferous forests at high elevations. They feed primarily on the seeds and cones of coniferous trees, and are known for their territorial behavior, which involves marking their territory with urine and chasing away intruders.
Red squirrels are most active during the day and are known for their energetic and acrobatic behavior. They are excellent climbers and are often seen darting back and forth through the branches of trees.
4.Ground Squirrels
Texas is home to several species of ground squirrels, including the Western gray squirrel (Sciurus griseus) and the Rock squirrel (Sciurus variegatoides). These squirrels are adapted to life on the ground, with short, stocky bodies and short tails.
Western gray squirrels are native to Texas and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and residential areas. They are generally gray in color and have a white belly. Western gray squirrels are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of plant materials, as well as insects and other small animals. They are known for their habit of gathering and storing food for the winter.
Rock squirrels are native to Texas and can be found in a variety of habitats, including rocky areas and open grasslands. They are generally brown or gray in color and have a white belly. Rock squirrels are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of plant materials, as well as insects and other small animals. They are known for their territorial behavior and are most active during the day.
5.Chipmunks
Chipmunks (Tamias spp.) are small, striped squirrels that can be found throughout Texas. There are several species of chipmunks in the state, including the Eastern chipmunk (Tamias striatus) and the Least chipmunk (Tamias minimus).
Chipmunks are smaller than ground squirrels, with a body length of around 6-9 inches and a tail that is around 4-6 inches long. They are characterized by their distinctive black and white stripes and their large cheek pouches, which they use to carry food.
Chipmunks are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of plant materials, such as seeds, nuts, and fruit, as well as insects and other small animals. They are known for their habit of storing food for the winter and are active during the day.
Conclusion
Texas is home to a diverse array of squirrel species, each with its own unique characteristics and behaviors. From the common gray squirrel to the elusive chipmunk, these animals are a vital part of the state’s ecosystem and are sure to bring a smile to the face of any nature lover.
